Manzini – The Government of Eswatini has committed to accelerating the implementation of the National Disability Plan of Action and convening a cross-sectoral review to identify gaps and speed up interventions aimed at fostering disability inclusion.
Speaking during the 2025 International Day for Persons with Disabilities commemoration, the Honourable Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Thulisile Dladla said that this year’s theme “Fostering Disability Inclusion in Advancing Socio-Economic Progress,” is more than a slogan but a clear call to action.
“This is a firm commitment to turn words into action, policy into practice, and charity into rights,” she said.
Reaffirming the government’s dedication, Dladla stated, “As the Government of Eswatini, we commit today to accelerate implementation of the National Disability Plan of Action and to convene a cross-sectoral review within the coming months to identify gaps and fast-track interventions.”
She stressed that disability inclusion should not be viewed as a burden but a strategic investment with long-term national benefits.
“Fostering disability inclusion is not a cost; it is an investment now and in the future,” she said.
She added that inclusive policies increase labour force participation, reduce dependency, stimulate innovation and build stronger, more resilient communities.
Dladla also highlighted legislative milestones such as the enactment of the National Disability Act and the development of the National Disability Plan of Action, describing them as key foundations for progress.
However, she cautioned that laws alone are not enough. “These have to be accompanied by concrete steps and actions that include making sufficient budgetary allocations, implementing plans and fostering accountability,” she emphasised.
She further applauded development partners, civil society, families, faith-based organisations and the private sector for their continued collaboration.
“Your partnership is indispensable. The government will ensure that we are bold in policy, rigorous in implementation and transparent in accountability,” she added.
Calling for unity of purpose, the legislator urged all sectors, including Parliament and private institutions, to centre the rights and potential of persons with disabilities in national development planning.
“To persons with disabilities here today and across Eswatini, we see you, we hear you, we need your leadership, your ideas and your courage,” she said. “Together we will dismantle barriers and build a country where every person has the chance to contribute and prosper,” she asserted.
Dladla urged that day to be a catalyst for real change.
“Let this be the day we redouble our commitment to concrete action, the day that marks measurable progress in access, opportunity and dignity for persons with disability in Eswatini,” she said.
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