Mogadishu, Somalia – December 4, 2024 – The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) was marked in Mogadishu with a two-day workshop themed “An Attitude Change in Society Regarding People with Disabilities.” Funded by VIKES and organized by the CAFIS Organization, the event provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and shared experiences, highlighting the resilience of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and the need for societal transformation.
The workshop featured personal testimonies from inspiring individuals, such as Elmi Ahmed, a blind university graduate, who shared his journey of overcoming societal and familial barriers. Elmi recounted how his parents initially doubted his ability to learn due to his blindness but later became his strongest supporters upon witnessing his progress and determination.
Another participant, Abdullahi, spoke about his struggles to leave his remote hometown in central Somalia to pursue education in Mogadishu. His story underscored the resilience and ambition of PWDs striving for self-improvement despite societal obstacles.
This year’s IDPD also coincided with a historic milestone for Somalia. Government officials, led by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, gathered for a ceremony to celebrate the day. In a landmark moment, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed the Bill for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, marking the first time such legislation has been enacted in Somalia.
The bill provides a comprehensive framework to safeguard the rights of PWDs, ensure equal opportunities, and enhance access to education, employment, and essential services. It reflects the Somali government’s growing commitment to fostering inclusion and improving the quality of life for all citizens.
During the workshop, Mohamed Mohamud Adde, chairman of the CAFIS Organization, emphasized the importance of changing societal perceptions about PWDs. He stated, “Attitudes must shift. These stories of triumph remind us that persons with disabilities are not defined by their challenges, but by their potential and determination.”
Joining the event virtually, Marjo Heinonen, the executive director of the VIKES Foundation, echoed these sentiments and highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to build an inclusive society. “Today’s workshop and the signing of the disability rights bill are steps forward in ensuring that every Somali citizen, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from the nation’s progress,” Heinonen said.
The two-day workshop, focusing on societal attitudes toward people with disabilities, successfully concluded on December 4th in Mogadishu. Beginning on December 3rd to align with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the event aimed to raise awareness and promote inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.
Organized by the CAFIS Organization and funded by VIKES, the workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, including individuals with disabilities, advocates, and stakeholders from various sectors. Over the two days, attendees engaged in discussions, shared experiences, and explored strategies to challenge misconceptions and foster a more inclusive and supportive society.
The workshop underscored the importance of changing societal attitudes, breaking down barriers, and ensuring equal opportunities for all. Participants shared personal stories and insights, highlighting the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and emphasizing the critical role of community support and policy change in addressing these issues.
The event concluded with a call to action for ongoing collaboration and commitment to creating a society where individuals with disabilities are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute fully to their communities. This year’s theme focuses on breaking barriers and fostering societal inclusion.
