Zilungile Mkhize
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindi Chikunga, has called for stronger partnerships across government, business, and civil society to advance the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
South Africa is observing Disability Rights Awareness Month under the theme: “Creating Strategic Multisectoral Partnerships for a Disability Inclusive Society” until 3 December.
The month provides an opportunity to assess progress in advancing disability rights, address persistent inequalities and strengthen efforts to ensure that persons with disabilities enjoy constitutional rights, dignity, and equal opportunities.
Chikunga said the 2026 theme calls for a shift from fragmented interventions to coordinated partnerships that turn policy commitments into tangible improvements in the lives of persons with disabilities.
“Creating a disability-inclusive society requires more than government policies and programmes. It requires all sectors of society to take responsibility for removing barriers, challenging discrimination, and creating opportunities for persons with disabilities”. said Chikunga
The department’s spokesperson, Cassius Selala, says there needs to be a move from isolated interventions to strategic partnerships that deliver sustainable and measurable change.
Click below to hear Selala’s sentiments…
