PWDs: Osun government restates resolve to support vulnerable groups

The Osun State Government has once again reiterated that its resolve to constantly mobilize resources to enable the intervention of Osun Community and Social Development Agency (Osun CSDA) to better the lots of rural communities, the vulnerable groups inclusive, while the requirements of the World Bank are regularly being met for continuous assistance of the bank.

The administration stated that in support of these, it has decided to support Osun CSDA with over five hundred million Naira for the implementation of multi-sectoral and socially inclusive micro projects under World Bank Assisted Osun CARES DLI 1.4.

The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke made this known in his address at the project launch and formal presentation of cheques to Persons With Disabilities groups on Friday in Osogbo.

Represented by the state's Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi, Adeleke also reiterated that access issues for person with disability have greater importance over that of the general community because they are more vulnerable.

In his words, "Therefore the implementation of projects identified by the groups as their priority projects will in no small measure make life more meaningful to them after successful implementation. In addition today's programme will further create more awareness and understanding of disabilities issues and the gains derivable from their integration in all aspects of life.

"It has been established that there is ability in disability and as such society should embrace and provide necessary support to this category of people to enable them unleash their potentials and contribute their quota to national growth and development. This is one of the focus of this administration and I am very happy for today."

He also noted hat Osun CSDA is World Bank assisted project operating Osun Covid-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (Osun CARES), an emergency programme to cushion the adverse effects of COVID-19.

In her welcome address earlier, Aderonke Abokede appreciated the governor for providing the enabling environment for Osun CSDA to empower Persons with Disabilities.

She added that as a matter of fact, the central part of the policy of the State Goverment is social inclusion.

"Today's event is an evidence based mainstreaming of disabilities into development and this will distinguish and make Osun State a role model of building inclusive society and giving voice to the voiceless.

"The State Government of Osun is willing and committed to ensuring social inclusion by funding 24 socially inclusive micro projects for persons with disabilities."



FI