Monrovia – The National Commission on Disabilities (NCD) celebrated International Wheelchair Day with a strong call to create an accessible environment for individuals with disabilities in all sectors across Liberia.
The event, held at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, brought together government officials, development partners, and individuals with disabilities, particularly wheelchair users, to discuss building a more inclusive and accessible society.
During his address, Samuel Dean, the Executive Director of the National Commission on Disabilities, emphasized the need for a roadmap to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities in the country.
“I have always been deliberate about incorporating inclusivity into Liberia’s development agenda. This event is not just about celebrating International Wheelchair Day, but about fostering conversations on accessibility for people with disabilities across Liberia,” said Mr. Dean.
He further explained the necessity of conducting an accessibility study, with collaboration from the Ministry of Public Works, to establish guidelines for the construction of buildings that are accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.
“Many buildings in Liberia are not accessible to people with disabilities. Our goal is to ensure that all of Liberia becomes accessible to everyone,” Mr. Dean noted.
He also highlighted the importance of raising public awareness about issues faced by individuals with disabilities in Liberia, calling on the government and private sector to consider accessibility in their construction plans.
“We want to engage with the Land Authority to ensure that future constructions are inclusive and accessible for all,” he added.
