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District support groups for the disabled celebrates 20th anniversary |22 July 2019

District support groups for the disabled celebrates 20th anniversary

The award recipients in a souvenir photograph

Since 1999, disability support groups have existed in each district across the country with the aim of providing persons living with disabilities with a place to talk about their experience, be heard and take part in various activities.

The association regrouping the districts’ disability support group of Seychelles celebrated its 20th anniversary of existence in a special celebration held at the Les Mamelles district administration on Saturday.

The celebration was the perfect occasion for the association to reward its long-serving volunteers who have dedicated time and effort to their respective support groups.

Jourdane Ernesta, chairperson of the National Association for the Disabled (NAFD), explained that the prize giving ceremony was held to reward volunteers who have been with the support groups since it was launched.

“This activity coincides with July 12, which is the date when our association was launched, and we are also organising this in conjunction with the National Day of the Disabled,” Mrs Ernesta noted.

She noted that the role of the disability support groups in districts is to work “closely with persons living with disabilities, help and support them as well as to organise activities and visits for them”.

In her speech, Mrs Ernesta stressed on the importance for district support groups to remain active for the benefits of persons living with disabilities which they serve.

On her part, the principal secretary for social affairs Linda William-Melanie expressed her appreciation of volunteers in the support group and, in particular, commended Mrs Ernesta for her years of commitment to the groups.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Family Affairs, Mitcy Larue, PS William-Melanie stated that not many would undertake voluntary work with love and passion like those present.

“Today is a special day which you should all embrace because this is the day society recognises your efforts for your country and we thank you,” PS William-Melanie stated.

The ceremony also included the launch of a new song, written and performed by Ebrahim Dodin, who is a person living with disability, which will be used as the theme song for the association.

The day continued with lunch followed by entertainment.

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