Pretoria: Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth, and Persons with Disabilities (DWYPD), Sindisiwe Chikunga, has called for a disability-inclusive society that upholds a better quality of life and the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities. This call marks the beginning of Disability Rights Awareness Month (DRAM), which is observed from 3 November to 3 December 2024.

According to South African Government News Agency, this month provides an important platform to champion disability rights and to work toward a South Africa where dignity and equality are universal. The Minister emphasized that whether disabled or able-bodied, all individuals must be empowered to contribute toward an inclusive society. DRAM is taking place under the theme: ‘Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy: Creating a Disability-Inclusive Society for a Better Quality of Life and the Protection of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.’

This month-long campaign underscores the universality, interdependence, and fundamental
rights of persons with disabilities, advocating for the full enjoyment of these rights without discrimination. It aims to drive awareness, inclusion, and empowerment of persons with disabilities across South Africa.

Aligned with the 2024-2029 Medium-Term Development Framework, which seeks to address current socio-economic challenges, DRAM2024 serves as a bridge uniting South Africans to build a disability-inclusive, barrier-free society. It envisions a South Africa where persons with disabilities actively contribute to socio-economic empowerment within their communities.

The government also urges all members of society to participate in the significant process of domesticating the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, facilitated by the South African Law Reform Commission. This process will contribute to the development of the Disability Rights Bill. The purpose of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is to promote, protect, and ensu
re the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities, and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.