By Joseph Momoh, D.S
FREETOWN — Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, has called for stronger implementation of laws and policies affecting vulnerable groups, insisting that legislation must translate into practical support for persons with disabilities, women, children and young people.
She made the call at the Civic Day USA Edition in New York on Thursday, September 24, 2026.
Karminty said government policies must go beyond enactment to deliver tangible services, particularly in inclusive education and healthcare.
She disclosed that government is working with UNICEF and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine to improve the identification, assessment and certification of persons with disabilities.
According to her, the initiative will also strengthen disability data management and promote early identification through communities, health centres and schools.
She said better data would enable persons with disabilities to access appropriate services, including glasses, hearing aids and other specialised support, while highlighting rehabilitation, vocational training and skills development as key intervention areas.
The Minister added that district centres are being equipped with computers and other tools to expand opportunities for persons with disabilities, including access to computer science.
Karminty stressed that the broader objective is to move from policy commitments to practical services that improve participation in society.
The Civic Day USA Edition brought together senior government officials and Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora to discuss national development, public policy and government programmes.
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