NGO unveils plans to end cycle of poverty, disability

In a bid to bridge the inequality gaps for the most vulnerable in Nigeria, a non-governmental organization, CBM Global Disability Inclusion, has unveiled a three-year country strategic plan titled, ‘Collaborative Actions to End the Cycle of Poverty and Disability (COLLABO: 2023-2026)’.

Its Country Director, Ms. Ekaete Umoh, during the inauguration of the project on Thursday in Abuja, said the initiative aimed at promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities in the country, through the strengthening of organisations of persons with disabilities, inclusion advisory supports, movement building, among others.

“In furtherance of our vision and mission, and to continue our service to PWDs, we are launching our Country Strategy Plan 2023 – 2026 (CSP) titled: ‘Collaborative Actions to end the cycle of poverty and disability (COLLABO).

“The plan is CBM Global Nigeria’s three-year strategy to deepen sustainable impact on the lives of persons with disabilities and their organisations.

“CBM Global Nigeria is setting this new direction following its existence in implementing programmes in Nigeria and having learned lessons on what works in building on and sustaining the gains so far made in the country,” she said.

According to her, the NGO has commenced an initiative, “the Disability Inclusion Mindset Series” in line with their mandate to challenge exclusion and discrimination against PWDs.

She said this would be done through advocacy and policy influencing, bridging knowledge gaps, and improved engagement between OPDs and the government to drive disability inclusion in the country.

Umoh said the Disability Mindset Series would provide a pedestal to promote a shared understanding of disability rights issues and mobilise support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities.

Head of Programmes, Africa of Cuso International, Uko Ekott, said he was glad to be part of the inaugural ‘Disability Inclusion Mindset Series’. He said the series sought to chart a new course “As we pause, reflect and strategise to galvanise support for marginalised groups to take ownership of their own development.”

Since transforming from CBM International in 2019, CBM Global has remained a world leader in global disability inclusion that works alongside PLWDs in the world’s poorest places to fight poverty, exclusion and transform lives.

NAN/S.S