Every December 3rd, the world comes together to honor the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), a day dedicated to promoting the rights, dignity, and well-being of persons with disabilities globally. This year, under the theme "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future," the Voice for Disabled People Association (VDPA) is taking proactive steps to highlight the essential role that individuals with disabilities play within their communities, particularly in refugee settings like Kakuma and Kalobeyei.
The celebration aims to bring together diverse stakeholders, including UNHCR, the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), NGOs, community-based organizations (CBOs), and refugee-led organizations (RLOs). Together, we will foster understanding, advocate for change, and celebrate the remarkable contributions of persons with disabilities. Here’s how we plan to make this day impactful.
Our Objectives for IDPD 2024
- Raise Awareness: We want to spotlight the rights, challenges, and needs of persons with disabilities, with a special focus on refugee contexts where these issues are often compounded.
- Promote Inclusion: We aim to emphasize the importance of inclusion across all areas of life—from education and healthcare to employment—ensuring that persons with disabilities have the opportunity to thrive.
- Celebrate Achievements: This day is a chance to recognize the contributions that individuals with disabilities have made to their communities, breaking stereotypes and reshaping narratives.
- Advocate for Change: Through various initiatives, we will use this platform to push for policies that improve the lives of persons with disabilities, particularly in refugee settings.
Planned Activities for IDPD 2024
To realize these objectives, we have curated a series of activities designed to engage, educate, and inspire. Here's a look at what’s in store:
1. Public Awareness Campaign
Leading up to December 3rd, VDPA will roll out a campaign on social media, through community posters, and via newsletters. The campaign will share powerful stories, statistics, and infographics, all aimed at shedding light on the lives and experiences of persons with disabilities.
2. Community Workshops
We’ll host workshops and discussions within the refugee community that cover topics like disability rights, accessibility, and empowerment. Guest speakers, including disability rights advocates, will join to provide firsthand perspectives and valuable insights, fostering a deeper understanding within the community.
3. Art and Cultural Exhibitions
Art has the power to communicate beyond words, and our exhibition will showcase the talents of individuals with disabilities through visual art, poetry readings, and live performances. This is an opportunity for participants to express themselves and for audiences to experience their creative voices.
4. Inclusive Sports and Play Activities
Our inclusive sports events encourage participation from everyone, regardless of physical abilities. These activities promote unity, physical health, and social inclusion, strengthening the sense of community and connection among participants.
5. Panel Discussion
We are organizing a panel discussion featuring representatives from the community, UNHCR, NCPWD, NGOs, CBOs, RLOs, and disability experts. Together, they will explore critical issues faced by persons with disabilities in refugee contexts, discussing both the challenges and potential solutions.
6. Advocacy Statements
As part of our mission to make a lasting impact, we’ll draft and distribute advocacy statements to stakeholders. These statements will emphasize the rights of persons with disabilities and advocate for their inclusion in policy conversations, ensuring that their voices are heard at all levels of decision-making.
Expected Outcomes
Through these activities, we aim to achieve the following:
- Increased Awareness: By engaging the community and stakeholders, we hope to foster a more profound understanding of the rights and needs of persons with disabilities.
- Enhanced Community Engagement: By offering inclusive activities, we strengthen community bonds and build mutual respect and empathy.
- Policy Advocacy: Through clear, actionable recommendations, we’ll push for policies that support the inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities.
- Empowerment: Our goal is to encourage individuals with disabilities to advocate for themselves, take on leadership roles, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Join Us in Making a Difference
This December 3rd, let's unite to celebrate, support, and uplift persons with disabilities. By amplifying their leadership, we work toward a future where everyone, regardless of ability, has the chance to shape their community and the world. With your support, we can foster an inclusive and sustainable environment for persons with disabilities in Kakuma, Kalobeyei, and beyond.
Contact Us
If you would like to participate, volunteer, or learn more about our initiatives, please reach out to us:
Jules Mkelelwa Mwandja
Founder and Director, Voice for Disabled People Association
Email: vdpa.office@gmail.com / mwandjajules@gmail.com
Phone: +254705130723
Let’s create a future where every voice is heard and every leader, no matter their ability, is empowered. Together, we can make a difference.
