The Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia, Hamza Abdi Barre commended Somalia for its progress in recognizing the rights of persons with disabilities.
The premier said that the Somali government is increasing the budget of the Somali Disability Agency for people with special needs.
´´On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I reiterated the importance of securing the rights of people with disabilities. My government is committed to introducing legislations that protect their rights & well-being at every level of our society.´´ the prime minister said.
Access to statistical data on disabilities in Somalia is limited, which makes gauging the overall situation challenging. Better data is essential for mainstreaming disability into development so that it is inclusive and accessible. The UN is currently supporting the NDA in designing a survey to reach Somalis with disabilities – the first of its kind in Somalia.
Around the world, persons with disabilities have generally poorer health, lower education achievements, fewer economic opportunities and higher rates of poverty than people without disabilities. This is largely due to the lack of services available to them and the many obstacles they face in their everyday lives. Evidence and experience show that when barriers to their inclusion are removed and persons with disabilities are empowered to participate fully in societal life, their entire community benefits.
The theme for IDPD this year is ‘Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world.’
Observed annually on 3 December, the UN General Assembly established IDPD in 1992. The Day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.
It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.
