In a heartfelt address during the World Cane Day celebration on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, the Director-General of the Civil Service Agency called for united budget advocacy to support people with disabilities. Hon. Josiah F. Joekai, Jr., appeals to state-owned enterprises to allocate significant portions of their corporate social service resources to the disability community and for government entities to provide relevant employment opportunities.
Hon. Joekai, who served as the keynote speaker, acknowledged progress made but emphasized ongoing challenges, stating, “Recognition of the abilities of the disabled and their valuable contributions to society is growing. Every person, regardless of ability, has something important to offer. Advocacy and legislature have started to enable opportunities for equal, fair, and just treatment. The stigma hasn’t disappeared entirely, but voice calls for inclusion and acceptance are louder than ever before.”
The CSA boss stressed that government efforts alone are insufficient and highlighted the crucial roles of international partners, whose resources, expertise, and commitment have driven many of the initiatives that are breaking down barriers for the disabled.
The Director-General equally called for unity amongst all the disabled and disability institutions to unite and work together. Urging that it is only through unity and collaboration that they can truly support each other and ensure the vibrancy of the disability community. He asked them to share their experiences, lend a helping hand to one another, and advocate for the changes they need with one powerful voice. When they stand together, they amplify their message and build a stronger foundation for the generations to come.
Earlier in his congratulatory message, Hon. Joekai said, “Today, we gather with a shared purpose and a common commitment to commemorate “World White Cane Safety Day.” It is a day to celebrate resilience, acknowledge abilities, and advocate for a world that is inclusive and accessible for all. This year’s global theme, “Promoting Inclusion, Celebrating Abilities, and Advocating Access for People,” speaks directly to the strides we must make to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive in our society.
The event, organized by Group of 77 under the office of the 2nd Lady of the Republic of Liberia, H.E. Madam Synleseh Stephenie Dahn Koung, was attended by notable figures such as Hon. Samuel S. Dean, Sr. Executive Director and Representative on the National Commission on Disabilities (NCD); Pastor Peter B. K. Flomo, President, and Members of the National Union of Organizations for the Disabilities (NUOD). Also were Madam Cherlyn Carry, representing the Government of Liberia; Madam Mary Sharon Mwango, UNICEF Consultant on Education; and other international partners.