Protect us, disabled ask leaders

[Yei, South Sudan, TCT] People with disability are asking leaders to protect them from the adverse effects of the current conflict in the country. They were speaking at the end of a riding competition on Sunday in Yei.

Speaking to TCT in Yei, they asked organizations and leaders to protect and support them. They are afraid that further escalation of fighting in war-torn South Sudan will hit them harder. They believe that more fighting will prolong their dependency and render them more vulnerable.

The competition was part of the extended celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3rd. It was held at Yei Freedom Square, drawing an estimated crowd of 3,000 spectators. The event gave the physically disabled an opportunity to speak about the challenges they face on a daily basis and to share their aspirations.

“I am filled with happiness. So many people came to support us. By doing this event, we have proved we can do the same kind of activities that other people who are not disabled can do. I pray to God to give our leaders good minds so that they can make another event, even better than this one,” said Samuel Badi, one of those who participated in the competition .

“I appreciated this event very much. People gathered here because of us, the disabled people. I recommend that we let this programme continue and let other partners come and join us,” said Isaac Taban Philip, another participant.

Alex Wani said that it was encouraging for the disabled to participate in the competition and for the support they got from spectators.

“We ask development partners to stand with us and support us so that we can gain further strength and continue to prosper,” he said.

Mary Akujo praised the organisers of the event and urged leaders to protect and lead the country well so that all people can live in peace.
Lazaro Angelo was excited for participating in the competition but regretted that there were no awards for winners, which would encourage more disabled people to participate in such events in the future.

“We need to be given some support so we may become self-sufficient,” he said.

Jacob Aligo Lo-Lado, Minister of Physical Infrastructure, thanked those who competed and pledged 15,000 South Sudanese pounds for each of the two football clubs, as well as the riders in the competition.