Physically challenged to be incorporated in decentralisation process

The European Union, EU, has provided FCFA 17 million to a local NGO; Club des Jeunes Aveugles Rehabilités du Cameroun, CJARC, to enable the organisation carry out studies in councils in the Mfoundi Division, Centre Region, to effectively incorporate physically challenged persons in the decentralisation process.

This information was made public in Yaounde, during a ceremony to plan the effective implementation of the studies.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the CEO of CJARC, Bertin Coco, said the initiative was to change the public perception about physically challenged persons.

“Some people think that the handicapped can only beg, eat and sleep. They are often considered liabilities. But we are out to let everyone know that they too have a quota to contribute in building the society,” he stated.

Bertin Coco further remarked that the event was a forum for them to make proposals to all the councils that make up the Mfoundi Division.

“We now know who is doing what and where in Yaounde as regard the protection of the rights of handicapped persons. This will enable councils to know who to contact for specific needs,” said Coco.

The Regional Delegate of Social Affairs, Sidonie Martine Eyouck Beyala Atangana, said there are several orders and circulars on the social inclusion of handicapped persons in the various spheres of public life. The action undertaken by CJARC, she went on, would go a long way to harness Government action at the level of the councils.

A teacher in the school for disabled children, Rosaline Abemte, said providing education for children with special needs is the best way to prepare them for social inclusion.

The gathering brought together stakeholders of the project, NGOs and CSOs involved in the rehabilitation and the protection of the handicapped in all seven Subdivisions in Mfoundi.