Parliament Takes Proactive Steps to Promote Disability Rights in South Sudan
Juba- In a groundbreaking move, the national parliament of South Sudan has shown proactive involvement in promoting the enforcement of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). This significant development has been met with praise and encouragement from prominent organizations advocating for disability rights in the country.
Mr. Edmund Yakani, Executive Director of Community Empowerment for Progress Organization (CEPO), expressed his appreciation for the parliament’s initiative, stating, “Our advocacy on disability inclusion is yielding positive results in ensuring the promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities in South Sudan.”
Honourable Noiam, who spearheaded the motion in parliament, was commended for championing an inclusive society in South Sudan. Mr. Yakani emphasized the importance of translating the provisions of the UNCRPD and its optional protocol into tangible actions to benefit individuals with disabilities across the nation.
Ms. Nema Juma, Communication and Advocacy Officer of Light for the World office in South Sudan, lauded the parliament’s focus on disability access in public institutions, highlighting the collaborative efforts between CEPO and other stakeholders to advance the enforcement of the UNCRPD.
The discussion in parliament revolved around the urgent and critical matter of ensuring people living with disabilities have equal access to public utilities. The motion underscored the constitutional rights of individuals with disabilities to participate in society, enjoy freedoms, and access essential services without discrimination or barriers.
Rt. Hon. Speaker Hon. Members reiterated the importance of upholding the rights of persons with disabilities as enshrined in the TCRSS, 2011, and the UNCRPD. The motion called for concrete steps to address the lack of accessibility features in public buildings, transportation, and government facilities to better accommodate individuals with disabilities.
CEPO expressed its commitment to engaging in influential advocacy and lobbying efforts to uphold the principles of the UNCRPD and ensure inclusivity and equality for all individuals in South Sudan.
