The Global Disability Fund (GDF) has brought together more than 23 countries in Berlin, Germany, to focus on crucial discussions about issues facing people with disabilities across various sectors, including education, climate change adaptation, economic inclusion, disaster response and recovery, and gender-based violence.
The summit gathered ministers from over 23 nations to develop strategies for incorporating disability issues into national policies and frameworks, ensuring that people with disabilities are prioritized and provided with enabling environments to participate in diverse opportunities.
Tanzania participated in the summit, outlining the country’s commitment to addressing the needs of people with disabilities through laws, regulations, and guidelines that aid the implementation of policies impacting this group.
Ummy Nderiananga, the Deputy Minister of the Prime Minister's Office responsible for Policy, Parliamentary Affairs, and Coordination, highlighted Tanzania’s efforts to ensure the inclusion of people with disabilities in various sectors, such as education, climate change adaptation, leadership opportunities, economic empowerment, and gender equality.
She also emphasized that the Tanzanian government would continue to address the needs of people with disabilities, particularly in relation to the challenges posed by climate change, including disasters that lead to loss of life, damage to infrastructure, and economic setbacks.
“We recognize that people with disabilities are disproportionately affected by disasters, and our government will continue to prioritize their needs in disaster management efforts. This includes ensuring that laws, regulations, and guidelines are followed while addressing the impact of climate change,” said Nderiananga.
She pointed out that the Disaster Management Act, Chapter 242, mandates the representation of people with disabilities in the National Disaster Management Stakeholders’ Forum.
Additionally, the 2022 Disaster Management Regulations emphasize the need to consider the requirements of people with disabilities when conducting damage and needs assessments for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.
Furthermore, Tanzania adheres to the 2022 Humanitarian Aid Guidelines for Disaster-Affected People, which prioritize individuals with disabilities, especially those in households without support from relatives or the community.
The National Disaster Management Strategy for 2022-2027 also aims to enhance the inclusion of gender, youth, and people with disabilities in disaster management activities.
Dr. Ola Abualghaib, Director of the Global Disability Fund (GDF), opened the conference by stressing the critical importance of continuing to amplify the voices of people with disabilities globally and collaborating on key issues that drive meaningful change.
This is particularly important as the world has made significant progress in technology and other sectors.
“It is a great pleasure to meet here in Germany ahead of the Third Global Disability Summit. Let us continue to work together to ensure the effective implementation of plans that directly affect us all, ensuring that no one is left behind,” said Dr. Abualghaib.
