Sierra Leone's Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, has emphasized the need for stronger implementation of laws and policies affecting vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, women, children, and young people. Speaking at the Civic Day USA Edition in New York on September 24, 2026, Karminty stressed that legislation must translate into practical services. The Minister highlighted the importance of moving beyond policy commitments to deliver tangible support.
The Government of Sierra Leone is collaborating with international organizations, including UNICEF and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, to improve the identification, assessment, and certification of persons with disabilities. This initiative aims to strengthen disability data management and promote early identification through communities, health centers, and schools. The Minister noted that better data will enable persons with disabilities to access appropriate services.
Karminty mentioned that the initiative will provide persons with disabilities with access to specialized support, including glasses, hearing aids, and rehabilitation services. Additionally, vocational training and skills development programs will be implemented to enhance their participation in society. The Minister also highlighted the distribution of computers and equipment to district centers to expand opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The distribution of equipment to district centers aims to provide persons with disabilities with access to areas such as computer science. This move is part of the broader objective to ensure that support for vulnerable groups moves from policy commitments to practical services. Karminty emphasized that the Government is committed to improving the lives of persons with disabilities.
The Civic Day USA Edition brought together senior government officials and Sierra Leoneans in the diaspora for discussions on national development, public policy, and government programs. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to engage with the Minister and other officials on issues affecting the country. Karminty's remarks at the event underscored the importance of practical support for vulnerable groups.
Karminty's call for action on disability policies is part of the Government's efforts to address the needs of vulnerable groups. The Minister's emphasis on practical support reflects the Government's commitment to improving the lives of persons with disabilities. The initiative has the potential to enhance the participation of persons with disabilities in society.
The collaboration between the Government and international organizations is expected to yield positive results in the implementation of disability policies. The Minister's remarks at the Civic Day USA Edition highlighted the importance of partnerships in addressing the needs of vulnerable groups. The Government's efforts to turn disability policies into practical support are ongoing.
Key points
- Minister Melrose Karminty calls for practical support for persons with disabilities
- Government collaborates with UNICEF and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine to improve disability data management
- Initiative aims to provide persons with disabilities with access to specialized support and vocational training
