By: P. Uriah Suah
GANTA, Nimba County – Liberia’s Second Lady, Madam Synleseh Stephenie Dahn Koung, has called for greater inclusivity and leadership opportunities for persons with disabilities as Liberia joined the world in celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).
Speaking through her Communications Officer, Mr. Clifford Payne, Madam Koung emphasized the need to break down barriers that hinder the full participation of persons with disabilities in society.
Delivering the Second Lady’s message, Payne highlighted her firm belief that sustainable development is only achievable when every individual, regardless of ability, is given the opportunity to contribute.
“Persons with disabilities have immense potential to lead and contribute to society. However, they face numerous challenges in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and decision-making platforms,” Payne said.
He conveyed Madam Koung’s commitment to advocating for policies that promote accessibility and leadership opportunities while combating stigma against persons with disabilities.
Her message underscored three key priorities: Enhancing leadership opportunities in government, education, and business; Improving accessibility to infrastructure, healthcare, education, and technology; and Promoting public awareness campaigns to highlight the rights and abilities of persons with disabilities.
Payne urged Liberians to support disability-led initiatives and inclusive policies, stressing, “We must amplify the voices of persons with disabilities, celebrate their leadership, and ensure no one is left behind.”
Also speaking, the Executive Director of the National Commission on Disabilities, Samuel Dean, underscored the need for inclusive development. He pledged to advocate for the establishment of specialized schools for disabled students nationwide and emphasized achieving the 4% employment target for persons with disabilities across the public and private sectors.
Dean reiterated his commitment to ensuring that the government’s ARREST agenda positively impacts the lives of persons with disabilities, adding, “Every decision-making process must consider the voices and needs of persons with disabilities.”
This year’s global theme, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” aligns with Liberia’s national theme, “Strength in Inclusivity – Every Ability Counts.” Both themes highlight the urgent need for collective action to remove barriers and ensure equal opportunities for all.
The event, which brought together government officials, donor partners, disability advocates, and community leaders, marked a significant step toward building a more inclusive society in Liberia.
