16 Oct 2018

The two-day national disability framework will reinforce Botswana’s long-standing commitment to uphold and safeguard the rights of People Living with Disabilities (PLWD) as prescribed by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability (UNCRPD).

This was said by the Minister for Presidential Affairs, Governance and Public Administration Mr Nonofo Molefhi at the opening of the conference in Gaborone on October 15. 

“The conference, therefore, came at the right time as it will reinforce Botswana’s commitment to the rights of PLWD both national and internationally and it will further foster a more inclusive society and encourage participation of PLWD in the community,” he said.

Minister Molefhi noted that government, development partners such as UNDP, the private sector and other supporters were deeply committed to effectively addressing the challenges experienced by PLWDs.

He emphasized that it was government commitment to uphold the rights of PLWDs to equal treatment and to participate fully in community life and free from discrimination.

Mr Molefhi said the objectives of disability legislation include elimination of discrimination against persons on the ground of disability in the areas of work, accommodation, education, access to premises, club and sport, the provision of goods, facilities, services land, and existing laws.

He stressed that PLWDs had the same rights to equality before the law as well as recognition and acceptance promoted within the community.

Speaking about UNCRPD, he said it “reflects and affirms the protection of PLWDs and also seeks to promote awareness as a major step in recognising the right of all people to live to their fullest potential including PLWDs”.   

He further said the timing of the conference was appropriate as there was an ongoing dialogue within government regarding Botswana’s accession to the UNCRPD, the development of a national disability strategy and disability legislation, saying the conference would provide more knowledge and clarity on the benefits of the two instruments.

The conference’s focus would be the national disability framework consultations and discussions and participation by PLWD in social, economic, political and spiritual life.

Mr Molefhi said the conference would also assess the impact of current practices and policies as well highlight the achievements and identify gaps, including making recommendations to policymakers, the legal fraternity, and other stakeholders to develop well-informed strategies aimed at empowering PLWDs. ENDS