By: Emmanuel Koffa
Grand Kru County, Barclayville City –January 3,2025 -In a heartfelt demonstration of unity and resilience, hundreds of individuals living with disabilities, including men and women from various backgrounds, have come together to petition the government of Liberia and international partners for urgent assistance.
The group, under the banner, “Trembo Community Disabled Association” gathered in a peaceful assembly, voiced their concerns over the critical issues affecting their daily lives and called for immediate action to improve their circumstances in Grand Kru County.
They are drawn out from the seven towns of Trembo Community including Blebo, Sorroken, Newaken, Wutuken, Dougbo, and Behwen towns.
In a separate remarks highlighted several pressing challenges that those living with disabilities face, including limited access to education, inadequate healthcare services, insufficient infrastructure, and a lack of employment opportunities.
They emphasized that these issues not only affect their quality of life but also hinder their ability to participate fully in society, articulated the need for the national government and donor agencies to prioritize policies and programs that are inclusive and designed to support individuals with disabilities. “We are tired of being sidelined. Our rights as citizens are not being upheld. We demand equal access to opportunities and resources that will uplift our community.”
In addition to addressing basic needs, they called for improved infrastructure, including accessible roads and public facilities that cater to individuals with mobility challenges.
The advocates argued that a strong commitment from the government to improve accessibility would empower those with disabilities and enable them to engage more fully in their communities.
The petition not only aims to address the immediate needs of individuals with disabilities in Grand Kru County but also seeks to foster a broader dialogue about inclusivity and social equity in Liberia.
According to them, they remain resolute in their quest for justice, urging the government and donors to place their well-being at the forefront of development agendas.
Edited: Jesefu Morris Keita
