FAECARE Foundation team with Mr. Owiriwa Darlington Esq, Director of Administration, Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation.
On November 14, 2024, FAECARE Foundation paid an advocacy visit to the Director of Administration, Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation. The visit aimed to address barriers to accessibility faced by persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the state.
As part of their ongoing Disability Rights Initiative Project: Accessibility, FAECARE Foundation recommended that the ministry:
– Push for a rights-based law, specifically a disability law in Rivers State
– Establish an independent disability commission
– Partner with organizations and individuals to promote PWDs’ rights
– Make their office more accessible for PWDs
– Collaborate with other ministries to ensure accessibility of public and private facilities
Mr. Owiriwa Darlington Esq, Director of Administration, expressed his gratitude for FAECARE Foundation’s advocacy efforts. He acknowledged PWDs as people with abilities and emphasized the ministry’s commitment to championing their cause.
The Director highlighted the ongoing efforts to pass the Rivers State Discrimination Against Persons with Disability Bill 2024, which addresses accessibility and imposes penalties for non-compliance. He assured that the recommendations would be presented to the commissioner and expressed the ministry’s readiness to collaborate with FAECARE Foundation for future events.
The advocacy visit marked a significant step towards promoting accessibility and advancing disability rights in Rivers State. FAECARE Foundation remains committed to working with the ministry to ensure the rights of PWDs are protected.