Photo by Amin Ismail, UNAMID.
On 14 December 2017, UNAMID’s Communications and Public Information Section partnered with the Ministry of Social Affairs and the North Darfur Disabled Union to commemorate the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), in El Fasher, North Darfur. The event took place under the global theme for 2017, “Transformation towards sustainable and resilient society for all.”
The event was attended by the Wali (Governor) of North Darfur, Abdul-Wahid Yousif Ibrahim; the Minister of Social Affairs, Yousif Ishag Adam, UNAMID staff and representatives of the Disabled Union. Activities on the day included laying the foundation stone for a social area which will host persons with disabilities, street children and a center for prosthetic limbs.
UNAMID representative, Musi Khumalo, read the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres’ message on the day, where he calls for removing of physical and cultural barriers and creation of opportunities that leave none behind.
In his remarks, Mr. Ibrahim commended UNAMID and non-governmental organizations for their support to persons with disabilities in North Darfur. Additionally, he pledged all necessary support for projects aimed at the disabled.
On his part, Yousif Ishag Adam, Minister of Social Affairs called on UNAMID, the UN Country Team as well as other international and national organizations to support the construction of the social area in El Fasher.
On behalf of the disabled community, Issa Zakaria Ahmed, urged for laws for persons with disabilities enabling them to enjoy their basic rights to education, health and recruitment.
The International Day for Persons with Disabilities is globally celebrated on 3 December each year.