By Ibrahim Karim Bangura (Tanko)

In an effort to celebrate International Day of Disability (IDD) in the country, the Ministry of Social Welfare, has awarded Adama Team Foundation (AFT-US), an organization based in the United States of America.

The award for their tireless effort made in promoting issues of disabilities especially in deaf communities in Sierra Leone.

It was doing great that with passion and commitment.

The foundation is doing all it can to improving the lives of those who often face significant challenges in terms of hearing and speech abilities.

The event was held at the Miatta Conference center, on Tuesday, 3rd December, 2024 in Freetown.

“We are delighted and proud for the great award; Adama Team Foundation, established in 2023. Our mission is to integrate the deaf or hard-of hearing people to  be included with others in an inclusive environment.

One way we have achieved this mission is by having sign language interpreters for communications purposes.

We were motivated to come together and start this foundation to be able to solve the ongoing issues challenging the deaf communities,” the CEO said.

In his keynote message, Vice President, Juldeh Jalloh, called on the disabled organization to stop its members parading the streets of the capital and elsewhere begging.

Adding that government is trying to search for job opportunities to  empowered persons with disabilities in the country.

“Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future, ” was the theme the VP was speaking on.

The Chairman, National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), Dr. Vandy Konneh said government is ready to support and enforce laws that would aid persons with disabilities.

He noted that job opportunities and the need to included in the national budget and other kinds of support for the disabled are at cabinet stage.

‘’We thank the national associations for their strong leadership, also for the education scholarships,” said NCPD chairman.

Kadiatu Kargbo, a member of Adama Team Foundation, said the event is a flashback for PWDs community in the country.

“I’m proud to be part of the winning team today within a short time working with the Adama Team Foundation, we believe in the idea and trust of our CEO and team,” she said.