Sightsavers call for global cooperation to promote disability inclusion

Sightsavers has called for collective action to create a society where everyone can thrive and contribute to sustainable development in celebration of this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The 2024 celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities themed “Sustainable Development: Advancing the Rights of Persons with Disabilities”.

Persons with disabilities remain among the most marginalized groups, facing barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and participation in public life. This year’s theme highlights the urgent need for disability-inclusive policies and practices to ensure no one is left behind in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking about the importance of inclusion, Dr. Joy Shu’aibu, Sightsavers’ Nigeria Country Director, emphasized, “Sustainable development is impossible without inclusion. We must remove the physical, societal, and systemic barriers that prevent persons with disabilities from reaching their full potential. At Sightsavers, we are committed to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities through empowerment, partnerships, and community-driven initiatives.”

Sightsavers’ work in Nigeria focuses on breaking these barriers. Through projects like the SABI-Woman project, the organization has empowered hundreds of women, girls, and youth with disabilities to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams.

One such success story is Hajara, an 18-year-old visually impaired student from Kano, who transformed her life with the support of Sightsavers. Losing her sight at the age of two, Hajara faced significant challenges but is now a role model in her community.

The SABI-Woman programme introduced her to new business opportunities, enabling her to earn a living through online sales. Today, she inspires other girls with disabilities, saying: “Don’t cage yourselves, come out and show your potential.”

Speaking about the impact of the project, Dr. Shu’aibu, said: “Hajara’s story is a powerful reminder of what is possible when we invest in inclusive development. Women and girls with disabilities are among the most marginalized in our society, yet they have incredible potential to drive change when given the right opportunities.

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“At Sightsavers, we are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, and we are proud to see girls like Hajara thrive and inspire others. This International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we reaffirm our commitment to breaking down barriers and building a more inclusive world.”

To mark International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Sightsavers is organizing a series of events across Nigeria, including community forums, media engagements, and school awareness campaigns, to raise awareness about disability rights and promote inclusion.

This year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities is themed “Sustainable Development: Advancing the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,” highlighting the importance of creating a society where everyone can participate fully and equally.

Sightsavers calls on governments, organizations, and communities to prioritize inclusion and invest in initiatives that empower persons with disabilities.

READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE