The Mayor of Makhado Municipality, Cllr Dorcus Mboyi, has assured persons living with disabilities that a reasonable number of them will be employed in the upcoming positions under the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)..

Addressing a large gathering of persons living with disabilities during the Disability Day Celebration at Shalom Christian Centre in Waterval Region on 22 November 2024, Mayor Mboyi emphasised the municipality’s commitment to inclusivity..

“The responsibility lies with Ward Councillors. They must include persons living with disabilities when submitting lists of candidates for the EPWP. When we say better life for all, we do not exclude persons living with disabilities,” said Mayor Mboyi..

She further highlighted the municipality’s shortcomings regarding disability representation. “The Cabinet has mandated that at least 2% of employees in our workplaces should be persons living with disabilities. Unfortunately, our municipality is still at 0%. Including them in our system is a meaningful way to empower them,” she added..

Mayor Mboyi urged the community to foster inclusivity and respect. “Persons living with disabilities must enjoy the same freedom and services as everyone else. Failing to acknowledge their needs infringes on their human rights and freedom. Disability is often overlooked in our communities, which is unfair,” she remarked.

She also encouraged society to treat persons with disabilities with dignity and equality. “Speak to persons with disabilities as you would to anyone else. Treat them as you would like to be treated—without pity or patronisation. We are all created in God’s image and must care for one another,” she said.

The Mayor called on parents to empower children with disabilities. “Parents, please don’t hide your children just because they have disabilities. By doing so, you limit their potential,” she cautioned.

“Disability is not a red card in life. Focus on your abilities. If you are passionate about music, pursue it wholeheartedly. You may be physically disabled, but spiritually you are capable. Self-isolation is the real enemy. Love yourself, have confidence, and embrace your rights,” she encouraged.

Mayor Mboyi expressed hope for tangible outcomes by the next Disability Day Celebration. “Today, we should be discussing donations to charitable organisations, wheelchairs distributed, and ramps constructed. Next year, we should celebrate the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the EPWP. Fight for your rights," she concluded.

The Spokesperson for the Makhado Disability Forum, Jeffrey Sadam Masutha, urged Mayor Mboyi to ensure that sign language interpretation is incorporated into all municipal gatherings.

Social Worker, Ele Mudanabula, echoed the call for inclusivity, warning parents against isolating children with disabilities. “Isolation affects their mental health and can lead to tragic outcomes like suicide,” she cautioned.