Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services Aishath Mohamed Didi has revealed plans to establish a Disability Management and Rehabilitation Centre in the Maldives.
The minister made the announcement in the message released on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities. In her message, the gender minister highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts among state authorities, civil societies and organisations in ensuring equitable access to basic services for all citizens, including persons with disabilities. She noted although efforts to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities have increased in the Maldives over the years, there are still major challenges in providing equal access to all services and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
The minister stated the establishment of a specialised centre to manage persons with disabilities will boost the efforts to provide access to services and opportunities for disabled persons, and address the concerns regarding the difficulties faced by them on a daily basis. She noted this would be the first time such a centre is established in the Maldives.
The minister further stated the gender ministry has been undertaking several efforts to resolve the difficulties faced by disabled persons, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic. As such, she noted a special system was established in April to assist individuals with disabilities impacted by the pandemic.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is marked annually on December 3. The day is observed to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities. The theme for this year’s day is Building Back Better Towards Disability-Inclusive, Accessible and Sustainable Post-COVID-19 World.