BY DELISA THWALA
LUDZIDZINI – People living with disabilities were not left behind during the ongoing Sibaya 2023.
There were over five people living with disabilities spotted during the Sibaya where the King is yet to address emaSwati.
Speaking for people living with disabilities, Sihle Mthalanga said they expected the King to address grants, elections and the parliament.
He said they viewed Sibaya as an effort to continue its commitment to motivate individuals to take action and to include more people with disabilities in the workplace, in schools, neighbourhoods, and in all aspects of society.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 1 billion people live with a disability (WHO, 2017).
Globally and nationally, disabilities are more commonly found in areas of poverty. Approximately 26 percent of people in the U.S have a disability, with the most common disabilities being related to mobility or cognition.
As people live longer, they are more likely to experience a disability (Bialik, 2020). Although there is a higher prevalence of disability than some might guess, individuals with a disability.
Mthalanga further said, Sibaya and being at Sibaya moves the negative stigma that can be associated with a disability.
He said this goal was initially achieved by having two individuals who live with disabilities share their stories to highlight challenges and encourage dialogue among those who may have the privilege of not living with a disability.
