In a significant step towards addressing the needs of children with disabilities in Pujehun, Sierra Leone, the Welfare Society for the Disabled has initiated a comprehensive needs assessment project. Supported by funding from Trocaire through the SIOBHAN EDUCATION FOR ALL PROJECT, this endeavor aims to identify and address the unique challenges faced by children aged 0 to 15 living with disabilities in the region.

Project coordinator, Mohamed Sillah, expressed the organization's commitment to advocating for the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities. Emphasizing the importance of inclusivity, the initiative seeks to empower children with disabilities and ensure their full integration into society.

Established initially in the Kambia district in 2004, the Welfare Society for the Disabled has expanded its scope to include Pujehun district. This expansion reflects the organization's long-term commitment to serving marginalized communities and promoting social inclusion.

The current project builds upon a previous mapping exercise conducted in Pujehun township last year, which identified over 100 children with disabilities. Through the ongoing needs assessment, the organization aims to identify the most vulnerable children within this group and provide them with targeted support.

One of the primary objectives of the project is to provide comprehensive assistance to a selected cohort of 20 children. This support includes the provision of educational materials, assistive devices, and other essential resources tailored to the specific needs of each child. Additionally, the project aims to empower parents or caregivers of these children, equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to provide effective care and support.

Scheduled for imminent launch in Pujehun, the project holds the promise of expanding support to encompass other segments of the disabled community in the future. By fostering a supportive environment and recognizing the capabilities and potential of every individual, regardless of their physical or cognitive challenges, the initiative aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

As the project progresses, it is hoped that it will serve as a catalyst for broader awareness and advocacy efforts to promote the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities across Sierra Leone. Through collaborative action and sustained commitment, tangible progress can be made towards building a more inclusive and compassionate society for future generations.