By: Kadijatu Bangura, Reporter, D.S
During the opening session of the Global Disability Summit 2025, Sierra Leone’s Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, delivered a powerful address on behalf of her government, expressing deep appreciation for the event’s organizers, particularly the Global Disability Fund (GDF), for their steadfast commitment to enhancing disability inclusion on both national and global scales.
Minister Karminty highlighted that Sierra Leone is at a critical juncture in its journey of post-conflict recovery, grappling with economic challenges and the escalating threats posed by climate change and natural disasters. She stressed the urgent need to establish inclusive and accessible frameworks that go beyond mere data collection, emphasizing the importance of creating resilient systems capable of withstanding crises while simultaneously safeguarding and empowering individuals with disabilities.
Reflecting on the advancements made since 2022, Minister Karminty credited the GDF for its pivotal role in fortifying Sierra Leone’s data collection systems and social protection policies. However, she called for a forward-looking strategy that expands and enhances these interventions to develop robust, disaster-ready mechanisms.
The Minister urged the Global Disability Fund and international partners to focus on four critical areas: prioritizing investments in disability-inclusive disaster risk reduction, strengthening preparedness through accessible emergency response systems, building the capacity of government ministries and emergency teams to incorporate disability inclusion in disaster planning, and empowering organizations of persons with disabilities through leadership training and advocacy initiatives.
Minister Karminty reaffirmed Sierra Leone’s dedication to fostering a future where disability inclusion is not merely an afterthought but a fundamental aspect of national development. She called upon global partners to unite in translating intent into action, aimed at nurturing a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable society for all.
The Global Disability Summit 2025 serves as a significant international platform dedicated to promoting the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities worldwide.
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