Limpopo Provincial Government has on 3 December 2019 joined the International community to celebrate International Day for Persons with Disability (PWDs) at Nsovo Disability Centre, Jimmy Jones village, Malamulele in Collins Chabane Municipality.
The day sought to make people understand disability issues and PWDs right to equality, hence the theme, “Break Barriers, Open Doors to realise an Inclusive Society for all.”
“Indeed our work is not complete for as long as there are barriers that still prohibit PWDs to realise the opportunities that can better their lives,” said MEC for Department of Social Development Nkakareng Rakgoale who represented the Premier.
Rakgoale called for the plight of PWDs to be fully addressed. She said government cannot rest until PWDs access to public transport, public and private facilities such as wheelchair ramps, braille in the lifts, user-friendly office equipment and reaching 2% employment target has been realised. “Our task as government is to ensure that the doors to an inclusive society are wide open for our compatriots living with disabilities,” indicated Rakgoale.
The MEC explained that government has legislation ensuring that PWDs get full and equal enjoyment of human rights and active involvement in society. She mentioned the Employment Equity Act, Broad Based Black Empowerment Act that exist to advance the rights and interests of everybody including PWDs.
Rakgoale applauded parents that ensure their children with disabilities are catered for accordingly. She assured such parents that government will ensure these children are empowered through government’s programmes such as education, job opportunities, health and social needs.
Schools accomodating learners with special needs were donated more than R500 000 worth of diaper pants and wheelchairs by Limpopo Gambling Board. The schools with cheque for diaper pants are: Tshiwavhusiku Razwimisani Special School, Jane Furse Primary School, Helen Franz School for Blind and those earmarked for wheel chairs are: Tshilidzini Special School, Thohoyandou Technical High, St Brendang Catholic Secondary School, SJ van der Merve Technical High School, Raeleng Secondary School, Harry Oppenheimer Agricultural High School, Nthabiseng Special School and Letaba Special School.
International Day for Persons with Disability held at Nsovo Disability Centre, Jim Jones village, Malamulele in Collins Chabane Municipality.