By Kidega Livingstone
South Sudan Union of Persons with Disabilities (SSUPD) is calling on the government to ratify the African Disability Protocol (ADP).
The ADP, adopted by the African Union (AU) in 2018, aims to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities throughout Africa.
“As an instrument crucial for protecting the rights of persons with disabilities on the continent, South Sudan, as an AU member state, has an obligation to ratify the ADP,” said Augustino Wudu Illario, Chairperson of the SSUPD, during a press conference on Tuesday.
While acknowledging South Sudan’s status as a state party to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), Illario emphasized that it is significant for the country to adopt the ADP.
The UN Secretary-General will visit South Sudan to enforce the UNCRPD and its Optional Protocol.
“This visit is a positive development for persons with disabilities in South Sudan,” Illario stated.
“We urge the government to take a proactive role by enacting a law to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities, as well as establishing a national disability council” he continued.
The SSUPD stressed the importance of the National Disability Council, which would provide technical advice and monitor the implementation of the UNCRPD.
“We call upon public, private, and non-governmental organizations to integrate the provisions of the UNCRPD and its Optional Protocol into their daily work,” Illario added. “We will advocate for the enactment of a bill in Parliament to establish the National Disability Council.”
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) is a key international treaty promoting the rights of people with disabilities.
Article 3 of the UNCRPD outlines general principles, including respect for inherent dignity, non-discrimination, and full and effective participation and inclusion in society.