Somalia’s National Disability Agency (NDA) recently hosted a crucial meeting in Mogadishu, bringing together civil society organizations, ministries, and stakeholders to discuss the integration of disability issues into the country’s upcoming 5-year National Development Plan.
Ali Abdullahi Salad, a member of the NDA’s executive committee, emphasized their commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities in Somalia can fully realize their rights. “Our goal is to incorporate the disability agenda into the national plan that the Somali government is preparing,” he stated. “This meeting aims to gather our recommendations and ensure disability issues are mainstreamed.”
Mowlid Abdiqadir Bedel, the Director of the NDA, highlighted the importance of including disability in the national plan, as it would significantly impact the lives of persons with disabilities. “We have been working to ensure that disability issues are not treated as a separate sector but rather as a cross-cutting concern across areas like health, education, justice, and the economy,” he explained.
Abdullahi Muuse, the representative for persons with disabilities in the Banadir region, welcomed the efforts to include the disability agenda in the national plan. “It is crucial that a thorough assessment is conducted to ensure the effective inclusion of persons with disabilities in the national plan,” he stated.
Several participants with disabilities at the meeting hailed the move as a historic achievement, marking a significant step towards the full inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in Somalia’s development agenda.
“For many years, disability issues were sidelined,” said one participant. “I was among those who advocated tirelessly for the establishment of the National Disability Agency. This milestone of including disability in the national plan is a source of great pride and a testament to our collective efforts.”
Another participant expressed gratitude for the recognition of disability rights and the opportunity for persons with disabilities to contribute to the country’s development. “It is truly an honor to have our perspectives and ideas incorporated into the 5-year national plan, ensuring that persons with disabilities are part of Somalia’s progress.”
The National Disability Agency and stakeholders will continue to work towards the effective implementation of the disability agenda within the National Development Plan, promoting equal rights, accessibility, and opportunities for all Somalis, regardless of disability.
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