Disabilities Advocacy Training Concludes in Yei

(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – More than 30 persons with disabilities, alongside women and youth representatives, have completed a two-day advocacy training in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State. The training aimed to strengthen their capacity to push for inclusive services and equal rights.

Held at the ECSS Guest House in Yei, the sessions brought together participants from diverse community groups to build skills in identifying key advocacy issues, engaging stakeholders, and effectively lobbying decision-makers.

John Chandiga, a representative of the South Sudan Union of Persons with Disabilities, said the initiative was designed to empower participants with practical knowledge and confidence to advocate for their rights.

“The objective of this training is to equip participants with skills to identify advocacy priorities in Yei River County and strengthen their confidence to speak out,” he said. “We are also focusing on stakeholder analysis to help them understand who to engage when advocating for change.”

Chandiga emphasized that persons with disabilities should not only be included as beneficiaries, but also recognized as active contributors to community development.

Participants said the training addressed a critical knowledge gap.

Rebecca David Ladu, one of the attendees, noted that many persons with disabilities lack awareness of effective advocacy strategies.

“This training has opened our eyes. With this knowledge, we can promote inclusiveness and ensure our voices are heard,” she said, urging authorities to create equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Another participant, Alex Sebit, also known as Burukusu, said the sessions helped clarify fundamental rights and how to advocate for them.

“Many people living with disabilities do not know their rights. Now we are learning how to speak up and who to engage,” he said.

The training also highlighted the challenges faced by caregivers.

Aseneta Semira, a mother of a 17-year-old visually impaired girl who recently completed primary school, said she welcomed the initiative despite ongoing hardships.

“I have not seen much change in my life despite the heavy responsibility I carry,” she said. “My daughter’s father abandoned us because of her condition, and I am struggling alone to support her education as she prepares to join Senior One this year.”

Advocates say such trainings are essential for promoting inclusion and ensuring that persons with disabilities are actively involved in decision-making processes that affect their lives.

Stakeholders in Yei have increasingly called for sustained support from the government and partners to address barriers in education, employment, and healthcare. They warn that without targeted interventions, many persons with disabilities will continue to be left behind.