By Kei Emmanuel Duku
Kajo-Keji County Commissioner plans to support mobility of Union of People with Disability (KKUPWD) Assessment Committee.
Commissioner, Wani Jackson Mule said the assistance will enable the committee to reach Nyepo and Liwolo Payams for crucial fieldwork.
Wani made the pledge during a recent visit to KKUPWD office in Mere over the past week.
The commissioner acknowledged that the ongoing economic crisis continues to hinder effective service delivery across the country.
Despite this, he affirmed that his administration would help provide the union with a vehicle to support their outreach efforts in targeted areas.
According to Lubang Simaya, Program Manager at KKUPWD, limited mobility is one of the key challenges facing the union, affecting their ability to reach underprivileged communities in Liwolo and Nyepo.
Simaya also highlighted the union’s struggle with a shortage of office space, which makes securely storing assets and equipment challenging.
“We acknowledge the support of ACROSS-South Sudan through the furniture and kitchen utensils they provided us,” said Simaya. “These items are available for hire, and I am sure it will help advance the union’s economic resilience and empowerment.”
Currently, a total of 857 people with disabilities have registered with the union. However, KKUPWD believes the actual number may be higher than those registered.
The union stated that high and persistent stigma, along with limited awareness programs at the grassroots level, cause many individuals with special needs to shy away from openly registering.
The Commissioner’s visit, requested by KKUPWD, provided a forum for both sides to foster a positive step towards enhancing inclusion and support for people with disabilities in the County.