Minister of the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD), Sindisiwe Chikunga, has called for a disability-inclusive society that supports better quality of life and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.

This call marks the beginning of Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), which is celebrated from November 3 to December 3, 2024.

“This month provides an important platform to advocate for the rights of people with disabilities and to work for a South Africa where dignity and equality are universal. Whether disabled or able-bodied, all individuals must be empowered to contribute to an inclusive society,” the minister said on Saturday.

DRAM is held under the theme: “Celebrating 30 years of democracy: creating a society that includes people with disabilities for a better quality of life and protection of the rights of people with disabilities”.

This month-long campaign emphasizes the universality, interdependence and fundamental rights of persons with disabilities, advocating for the full exercise of these rights without discrimination.

It aims to boost awareness, inclusion and empowerment of people with disabilities in South Africa.

“Aligned with the Medium Term Development Framework 2024-2029, which aims to address current socio-economic challenges, DRAM2024 serves as a bridge that unites South Africans to build a disability-inclusive and barrier-free society.

“Envision a South Africa where people with disabilities actively contribute to socio-economic empowerment in their communities.

“Government also urges all members of society to participate in the significant domestication process of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities facilitated by the South African Law Reform Commission. This process will contribute to the development of the Disability Rights Bill,” DWYPD said.

The purpose of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal exercise of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities and to promote respect for their inherent dignity. . –SAnews.gov.za