CABINET CLUSTER APPROVES DISABILITY POLICY AS MPUMALANGA RECEIVES KEY PROVINCIAL REPORT

By Precious Mupenzi

• The Department of Social Development (DSD) announced the Cabinet Cluster’s approval of the Draft Policy on Social Development Services to Persons with Disabilities, moving it closer to final Cabinet endorsement and eventual legislation.
• The Mpumalanga Provincial Report reflects key concerns raised during public hearings, including accessibility challenges, limited support systems, and gaps in education and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
• With the report’s handover, the Mpumalanga MEC for Social Development pledged to incorporate its recommendations into provincial plans, supported by a high-level action plan to ensure accountability and meaningful progress.

“This policy reaffirms our commitment to creating a society where persons with disabilities can live independently and participate equally with others,” declared Mr Kenny Maluleke, Chief Director for Strategy and Organisational Transformation at the Department of Social Development (DSD).

Speaking during the handover of the Mpumalanga Provincial Report on the 2023 Public Hearings for the Draft Policy on Social Development Services to Persons with Disabilities, Maluleke underscored the department’s dedication to advancing inclusivity. The event, held in Nelspruit on Wednesday, was a key part of National Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM) celebrations, which this year focused on the theme: “Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy: Creating a Disability-Inclusive Society for a Better Quality of Life and Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.”

“It is fitting that we hand over this report during DRAM, under this theme, as it highlights our ongoing commitment to creating a disability-inclusive society,” Maluleke remarked.

He announced that the draft policy, building on the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, had been approved by the Cabinet Cluster and was now awaiting final Cabinet approval. “Once passed, it will enable the development of legislation that will strengthen our efforts to protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities,” he stated.

The Mpumalanga Provincial Report, part of a nationwide effort that included 28 public hearings, reflects the concerns and aspirations of persons with disabilities and their representatives. It addresses critical issues such as accessibility, inclusion, and the provision of resources, serving as a blueprint for systemic change.

“This report captures their lived experiences and aspirations, providing us with a roadmap to build on our achievements and address critical gaps,” Maluleke explained, urging all stakeholders to work collaboratively to implement the accompanying high-level action plan.

He emphasised the policy’s importance in driving inclusive service delivery. “This policy reinforces the White Paper on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and reaffirms our commitment to services that support independent living and equal participation in society,” he said.

The report highlights pressing issues raised during the consultations, including the need for enhanced accessibility, inclusivity, and support systems.

“The Constitution enjoins us to create an enabling environment that protects and promotes the rights of persons with disabilities,” Maluleke noted. “This report provides a clear roadmap for action to address existing gaps and advance the rights of persons with disabilities.”

Key recommendations include improving access to education, capacity building, and skills development, alongside increasing employment opportunities and funding for persons with disabilities. The report also calls for better provision of assistive devices, such as wheelchairs and hearing aids.

A high-level action plan accompanies the report, outlining clear steps for implementing the recommendations. “This plan will be fully accessible, and its progress will be regularly monitored. We will all be held accountable for our commitments,” Maluleke assured attendees. He stressed the need for collaboration across government departments, NGOs, Disabled Persons’ Organisations (DPOs), and civil society to achieve meaningful progress.

Reflecting on the broader mission, Maluleke reminded the audience that full inclusion is an ongoing process. “This is a journey, not a destination. The Department of Social Development is ready to walk this path with all stakeholders to implement the necessary actions in the coming months,” he said.

The event concluded with Maluleke officially handing over the report to Mpumalanga MEC for Social Development, Ms Brenda Moeketsi. The MEC pledged to integrate the high-level action plan into the provincial department’s strategic and performance frameworks to effectively address the identified challenges.

With the Mpumalanga report now in the hands of provincial leaders, the DSD continues its mission to ensure that no one is left behind, affirming the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities.