Deputy Finance Minister for Fiscal Affairs Samora Wolokollie says government is committed to partnering with the Liberia Christian Association of the Blind (CAB) in fighting discrimination against persons with disabilities in Liberia.
The Deputy Finance Minister made the assertion on Monday, 15 October when he proxied for Finance Minister Samuel Tweh at the celebration of the World White Cane Safety Day held at the Monrovia City Hall.
He spoke on the theme: “Engaging Government’s Pro-Poor Development Strategy for Inclusive Social Development and Economic Sustainability of the Blind in Liberia.” Deputy Minister Wolokollie asserts that the George Weah-led government will develop a sustainable framework for the development of the physically challenged persons, stressing that being a blind person is not a state of choice.
He indicates that after nine months, the government has drafted a pro – poor development agenda for prosperity and development of the country which will shortly be presented to the Liberian people for their inputs.
Mr. Wolokollie pleads with Liberians not to discriminate against persons with disabilities on the basis of their condition in society.The Deputy Finance Minister assures that government will increase support to the blind and ensure that they have equal access to education, health and public transportation, and build the capacity of persons with disabilities.
According to Minister Wolokollie, government will also ensure that public buildings are erected in a way that persons with disabilities can access them and provide them with equal work and equal pay.
On behalf of Minister Tweah, Minister Wolokollie presented $77,500.00 Liberian Dollars to CAB and additional $5,000.00 Liberian Dollars as his personal package to CAB to enhance the operations of the blind organization.
Meanwhile, CAB is calling on government to pay particular attention to the disadvantaged and underprivileged sector of society during the Poor-Pro Consultation process.The organization pleads with government to ensure that persons with disabilities are included in the planning and implementation process.
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Additionally, the organization notes that improved security in Liberia will help to prevent disability on grounds that about 25% of disability results from injuries, violence and vehicular accidents.
By Emmanuel Mondaye–Edited by Winston W. Parley
