Governor Ngor pledges support for impaired persons

The governor of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, Tong Akeen Ngor, has directed the state government institutions to support the activities of persons with disabilities (PwDs).

Speaking during the celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities in the state capital, Aweil, Governor Ngor assured the impaired people of zero tolerance for discrimination.

He urged them to feel a sense of belonging as the owners of the state.

“I directed all the state government institutions to provide any kind of assistance to persons living with disabilities in the state. In addition, the governor informed the people with disabilities that they are part and parcel of the community, ” the statement from the office of the governor read in part.

Tong also advised them to embrace peace and unity and shun divisive politics.

The governor donated money and sacks of sorghum to the groups of PwDs and promised to continue working with them to address some of the challenges facing them.

The Chairman of PwDs in the state, Peter Majok Bol, lauded the state government for their continued support to them.

He asked the state authorities to give them a chance to participate in the political, social, and economic issues that affect the operation of the state.

He further called for support from the United Nations agencies and non-governmental organizations to support their projects.

“The Chairman of the Disabled Persons Union asked the UN Agencies and National NGOs in the State to support some of the projects that can assist the disabled community in NBGs,” the statement read.

The function was attended by state officials and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) representative.

Joint call

On Friday, the PwDs in Central Equatoria State demanded their representation and participation in decision-making.

The Chairperson of the Union of PwDs in Central Equatoria State, Augustino Wue Ilario, said it was the day to make their voices heard on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which protects their rights.

He stated that they have been advocating for as little as 15% affirmative action representation in government, but it has been futile.

“Disabled women should benefit from the 35 per cent affirmative action of women’s representation in South Sudan, ” he stressed.

Augustino said the economic crisis in the country has affected people with disabilities the most by depriving them of education, medical care, and other necessities.

He complained that people with disabilities are often ignored by government employers because of their status.

“People should be employed based on their credentials and faculties, but the problem is that employers in South Sudan do not value people with disabilities,” he said.

Mary Sabuni asked the government to include a day for people with disabilities in the national calendar so that they could be recognized for their contributions to society.

 “We want the government to include us in their December 3 public holiday so that people will know that there are people with disabilities in South Sudan,” she said.