By lfeanyi Ndukwe, Awka

The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilites(JONAPWD) Anambra state chapter in collaboration with Disability Rights Commission and Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare commemorated International Day for PWDs during the week.

Speaking on the theme titled,' Breaking Down Barriers:Technology and Digital Inclusion', the Chairman, Disability Rights Commission, Barr Chuks Ezewuzie called for inclusive policy and empowerment of persons with disabilities.

"We are sick and tired of being relegated as second class citizens. We are capable of active participation and execution of projects in the society.

"He bemoaned the ugly trends of political office holders disregarding and excluding the members of the special persons community."

In his keynote speech, Hon. Fred C Agbata, CEO, ICT agency duly represented by Tochukwu Ebeku said the roles played by PWDs is unquantifiable and impactful.

He further appraised the Anambra state government for addressing policies to ensure the inclusiveness and collaboration of PWDs in piloting the affairs of government.

He appealed for further support by private and public agencies to ensure structures and facilities to make life easier for the PWDs community.

"The Anambra ICT Agency is driving the vision of Gov. Soludo for everything as technology demands by incorporating inclusiveness of PWDs in the ICT sector," he said.

According to him, it is the drive of the administration to ensure their voices are heard, their perspectives valued and their leadership embraced.

He encouraged everyone to build a world where everyone regardless of their abilities has the opportunity to reach their full potentials.

Also speaking at the occasion, Comrade Ugo Okeke highlighted the challenges of the hosts. He said this year's theme seeks to address the urgent need to unite and take actions to support and empower PWDs in order to achieve sustainable development goals(SDGs). He appealed for automatic employment of PWDs in government parastatals.

Chairman, local organizing committee, Chidimma Ajemba in her address bemoaned the lack of implementation of the Disability Rights Law. She called on the government to make case for special persons in offices and various institutions.

Hope and possibility awards were given to recognised members of the society for their immense support to the PWDs to the society which includes Anglican Bishop of Nnewi Diocese, Bishop Ndubuisi Obi, DR Simeon Onyemaechi, CEO, Anambra State Health Insurance Agency, Ms. Chiamaka Nnake, Commissioner for Budget and Economic planning, and
Igwe Isuofia, Col. Christopher Moghalu.

Highlights of the eventful week includes a Novelty football match at ABS ground, grand reception at the Women Development Centre, drama and dance displays. The programme witnessed the attendance of stakeholders, journalists, clergymen, traditional rulers and political office holders who gave their unwavering support for PWDs.