By Gladys Fred Kole
President Salva Kiir Mayardit has directed all government institutions to implement the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).
This call came yesterday when the Ministry of Gender, Child, and Social Welfare and its partners launched the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Juba under the theme “Disability Rights Are Human Rights.”
The minister of humanitarian affairs, Abino Atak, who represented Kiir at the launching, said the president has directed all government institutions and called upon non-governmental organizations to commit to the implementation of the provisions of the UN-CRPD in their work with immediate effect.
“The president has directed institutions, and this is what you people have been calling for; he is aware of it and has taken it seriously to direct all institutions of government to put into account the rights that are enshrined in this convention in their daily activities,” Albino stated.
He further noted that services that are being delivered should also protect the rights of these people’s representation and employment, and all these aspects have to be taken care of.
According to Albino, the President has also called upon the Ministry of Gender to continue partnering with the development partners to develop the national action plan for implementing this important UN convention, acknowledging the good work they have put forth.
“Kiir is calling upon the nation to abstain from discriminating against PWD, whether a child or an adult; this is very clear that the president is telling the whole nation that we have to abandon and avoid any discrimination against PWD,” said Albino.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Gender, Child, And Social Welfare, Aya Benjamin Warille, stated that this is the beginning of the real journey for the promotion and protection of the rights of PWD in the country.
“It is a great moment when PWD are shown pathways for non-discrimination and genuine inclusion in any societal engagement since our country is now a party.” Aya underscored.
She expressed that disability rights are human rights that should be respected and upheld without any form of discrimination.
“Nobody here chose who they are today; they found themselves in that state. It shows that nobody is immune to that form if you have not acquired it in your journey. Old age is waiting for you.” Old age is a disability in progress.” Aya lamented.
Henry Swaka, a person with a disability expressed his excitement about the launch, especially for others who have not been able to access services.
Henry, however, said that in most cases, documents are signed and rectified, but if there’s no proper follow-up and coordination, it might be challenging.
“Ratification has brought a smile to us, but the implementation will change lives. It looks like things are going to go in the right direction, but it requires consistent follow-up and advocacy,” he added.
The signing of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN-CRPD) on February 24, 2023, is one of the greatest and most significant moves for the people of South Sudan to ensure that people with disabilities enjoy their full rights of citizenship and their meaningful participation in the development of South Sudan in a decent manner.