By Sikhulile Dlamini
MBABANE – People with visual impairment in Eswatini have expressed their happiness with the Father’s Day celebrations organised for people with disabilities.
The event was organised by the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office (DPMO) last Saturday (June 15, 2024) and it took place in Mahlanya. The people with visual impairment said this through the National Association of Persons Living with Visual Impairment.
Speaking today (Monday, June 17, 2024) on EBIS 1’s Current Affairs Show Letishisako, Nhlanhlalenhle Mtsetfwa, who is the president of the association, said they were grateful to the DPMO for participating in the celebration of father’s day with men living with disabilities on Saturday.
Mtsetfwa highlighted how the first-of-its-kind event was beneficiary to men with disabilities, as they were able to share the challenges they faced
“One of the challenges is the bullying they get from their family members and community leaders, as they are not recognised as men enough to build their homes and families. They tend to be belittled and pitied because of their shortcomings,” he said.
He further emphasised that these men pleaded with the office to be prioritised in job opportunities and accessing funds such as the Regional Development Fund (RDF), so that they too could alleviate poverty in their homes, as they also bore the responsibility of being fathers and husbands who provided.
On Saturday, Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla stated that these men refused to let their disabilities define them, but instead, they used their unique experiences and perspectives to make the world a better place.
“Some of you are on wheelchairs, some use white cane, some have hearing impairments but despite all these obstacles, you get up each day and fulfill your God-given responsibility with dignity and determination, whether providing for your families, advocating for your rights for simply living life on your own terms. Your actions inspire us,” Dladla said.
