21 Nov 2016

Financial constraints is one of the major factor that hampers the newly formed Ngami Voice of People Living with Disabilities to drive its mandate effectively.

Ngami Voice of People Living with Disabilities is a non-profit organisation formed last December to advocate for people with disabilities in Ngamiland District in the defence and protection of their rights

Since its establishment, the association has been struggling to conduct activities including outreach programme with a view to sensitise the Ngamiland community about its existence and to embark on a recruitment drive of people living with disabilities.

The association chairperson, Mr Edwin Phalane admitted that lack of funds was a stumbling block for them to meet their objectives. He said they have nothing in place, adding that they opened an account but unfortunately it was closed because there was no cash flow.

He said the executive committee contributed from their pockets to ensure the account was active, but that it was closed because of insufficient funds.

He said they have not approached any donors and appealed to the business community and the public to come to their rescue by assisting them financially.

Mr Phalane said they want to see people living with disability speaking with one voice and to instill the spirit of togetherness in the district.

He said they intend to have a fully fledged office where they could serve the interests and aspirations of people living with disability.

He also noted that they need transport to reach unregistered members in the district and encourage them to register.

He said they were inspired by women and youth associations to form an association championed by people living with disability, noting that women and youth were ahead in advocating for their rights and empowerment.

The chairperson underlined the need for people living with disability to stand up and speak with one voice.

Mr Phalane appealed to all people living with disability in the district to come forth and register with the association.BOPA