By Hassan Solokoh Bockarie
Action for Differently Abled Children Network Sierra Leone (ADANET), in partnership with Mobility for All / Mobility World and other stakeholders, on Monday successfully implemented a Mobility Aid Distribution Program at the Holy Trinity Church Compound in Kenema District.
The initiative benefited 15 persons living with disabilities, including youths, women, and men, with the primary aim of improving mobility, dignity, independence, and social inclusion. The program forms part of ADANET’s ongoing commitment to promoting the rights, empowerment, and full participation of persons with disabilities, particularly in underserved communities across Sierra Leone.
The objectives of the program were to provide appropriate mobility aids to persons living with disabilities, enhance independent movement and access to education, livelihoods, and social life, and strengthen partnerships among disability-focused organizations and community stakeholders.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Mayor of Kenema City Council, Madam Rugiatu, expressed appreciation to ADANET and its partners for selecting Kenema District for the impactful intervention. She reaffirmed the City Council’s commitment to supporting programs that promote inclusion, equality, and dignity for persons living with disabilities, while calling on other organizations to emulate the initiative.
The Mobility Director of Mobility for All / Mobility World, Mr. Lamin Kamara, emphasized that mobility is life-changing. According to him, providing the right mobility aid restores confidence, independence, and opportunity. He expressed satisfaction with the partnership with ADANET and pledged continued support to expand similar interventions across Sierra Leone.
The Branch Manager of Sierra Leone Commercial Bank (SLCB), Kenema Branch, Mr. Maxwell, described the program as a life-changing intervention and reiterated the bank’s commitment to corporate social responsibility. He noted that financial institutions have a vital role to play in inclusive social development and praised ADANET for its transparency and dedication to serving vulnerable groups.
Representing the School of the Blind, Mr. Sowa highlighted the importance of mobility support in enabling persons with visual impairments to move safely and independently. He thanked ADANET and its partners for recognizing the unique challenges faced by students with disabilities and for standing in solidarity with specialized institutions.
The Secretary General of Children Forum Network (CFN), Amos Yajor, underscored the strong connection between child protection, disability inclusion, and community empowerment. He commended ADANET for ensuring that no one is left behind and pledged continued collaboration in advocacy, capacity building, and service delivery for children and youths with disabilities.
In her closing remarks, Matinda Yorpoi, Executive Director of ADANET Sierra Leone, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all partners, stakeholders, and donors for their unwavering support.
“Today’s program is not just about mobility aids; it is about restoring hope, dignity, and opportunity to our brothers and sisters living with different abilities. ADANET remains committed to advocating for inclusion, empowerment, and equal access for all persons with disabilities across Sierra Leone. ” she stated.
She also thanked the beneficiaries for their courage and resilience, reaffirming ADANET’s determination to expand similar initiatives nationwide.
