DAR ES SALAAM: THE African Diplomatic Group (ADG) has donated various items and cash to four special needs schools in Dar es Salaam as part of the commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
The donation was handed over to four schools in Dar es Salaam yesterday during a handover ceremony attended by, among other dignitaries, members of the ADG.
The schools benefited from the support are Uhuru Mchaganyiko Primary School, Jeshi La Wokovu Primary School, Jangwani Secondary School and Pugu Secondary School.
Giving the remarks on behalf of ADG, Ambassador of the Union of Comoros and Dean of the African Diplomatic Group Ahamada El Badaoui Mohamed, said that the handover event was particularly meaningful as it coincides with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.
He said the day is dedicated to promoting understanding, advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities, and highlighting the importance of inclusion and wellbeing for all members of our society.
The envoy also stressed the importance of inclusivity noting that it is not just a responsibility but a shared opportunity to create a society where every individual has the chance to thrive and contribute.
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Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Dr Samweli Shelukindo, Assistant Director, Department of Africa Ellen Maduhu said that from the family to the community level, persons with disabilities face unique challenges in their daily life, making it crucial for them to create conducive environment where they can fully participate and contribute positively on the socio-economic activities.
“Today’s gesture of the African Diplomatic Group donation to the special needs schools is commendable and demonstrates the sense of compassion, solidarity, and humanity to the persons with disabilities. This move is exactly what the Commemoration Day was established for, a reminder of our moral responsibility to support persons with disabilities,” she said.
Reiterating on this year’s commemoration theme: “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future”, she said the theme resonates deeply with the donation event.
“In order for the person with disabilities to become leaders, they need to nurtured and equipped with necessary tools and assistance that later will culminate in their leadership roles and we can all agree that it’s all starts at home and school,” she insisted.
She said the donation given to the special needs schools is instrumental in improving the living conditions of the students with disabilities.
Ms Maduhu expressed appreciation and gratitude to the African Diplomatic Group for its endless unwavering support to the person with special needs.
She said the government has been actively involved in both international, regional, and local initiatives to address disability issues under the leadership of President Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan. Ms Maduhu added that through the Prime Minister’s Office, Labour, Youth, Employment and Persons with Disability different programs are in place for the person with disabilities to ensure their wellbeing.
For his part, the Ambassador of Morocco to Tanzania, Zakaria El Goumiri, expressed his gratitude to the ADG Secretariat and its members for their dedication and commitment to supporting special needs schools. He also extended his thanks to all sponsors and donors for their invaluable contributions, which will significantly impact the lives of children with special needs.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is celebrated annually on December 3rd. The day aims to promote awareness and support for the rights, dignity, and well-being of people with disabilities.
It also seeks to increase understanding of disability issues and the benefits of integrating people with disabilities into all aspects of society.
