09 Dec 2020

Ngami Regional Health Management Team (RHMT) has emphasised the need to empower people with disabilities.

Speaking at the Ngamiland Disability commemorations in Sehithwa recently, RHMT acting coordinator, Dr Sandra Maripe said the district had about 1 220 people with disabilities, out of which 268 were enrolled for food baskets, 261 on cash allowance while 31 were engaged in income- generating projects.

Dr Maripe expressed concern about some people who continued to stigmatise those with disabilities and name calling them.

Guest speaker, Mr Omphile Sehurutshe, a businessman, said employing people with disabilities was a benefit to the nation because some were more capable than able bodied employees.

Mr Sehurutshe said invisible disability showed that no one was immune to disability, therefore people should go through assessment to determine their condition.

He said some people may have mental issues related to disability while some may become disabled due to chronic illnesses.

A special education teacher from Boyei Primary School, Ms Lucia Ikanyeng said it was important to identify the form of disability a child had at a young age to help determine a relevant school for them.

Ms Ikanyeng indicated that the education policy compelled all children to get education.

She therefore encouraged parents, teachers and health workers to play a major role in early identification of disabilities in children. 

North West District assistant commissioner, Mr Ramogaupi Gaborekwe said government was committed to assisting people with disabilities through existing laws, policies and guidelines.

Mr Gaborekwe said the district disability committee ensured people with disabilities were empowered at district level. ends