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Story By Samuel Borlay / [email protected]
In a recent plea to President Joseph N Boakai, the Lofa County Coordinator for Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Sakou Nyan, highlighted the absence of disabled individuals in local leadership positions within Lofa County. Mr. Nyan’s call for inclusion stemmed from the omission of persons with disabilities in the recent appointments made by President Joseph Nuyam Boakai for local leadership roles in the county.
Emphasizing the importance of representation, Mr. Nyan urged President Boakai to consider appointing persons with disabilities to key local positions such as commissioners, mayors, town commissioners, and other leadership roles. He stressed that such appointments would enable individuals with disabilities to have direct access to the President and play a more active role in decision-making processes that affect their communities.
Furthermore, the County Coordinator encouraged persons with disabilities to remain steadfast in their self-development efforts, emphasizing that disability should not limit their aspirations. He underscored the significance of empowerment through engagement in activities such as agriculture and business, citing them as avenues for achieving independence and self-sustainability.
Mr. Nyan acknowledged the efforts of district leaders for persons with disabilities who have already ventured into agricultural activities and business endeavors. He commended their initiatives and highlighted the potential for economic empowerment and self-reliance that such pursuits offer to individuals with disabilities.
The call for inclusive representation and empowerment of persons with disabilities in local leadership roles reflects a broader movement towards ensuring equal opportunities and rights for all members of society. By actively involving individuals with disabilities in decision-making processes and fostering avenues for economic independence, communities can work towards building a more inclusive and supportive environment for all its members.
As stakeholders continue to advocate for greater inclusivity and representation, it is hoped that President Boakai and other decision-makers will heed these calls and take proactive measures to promote diversity and empowerment within local leadership structures in Lofa County and beyond.
