In a significant move to promote socio-professional inclusion, the Togolese government, through the Minister of Solidarity, Gender, Family, and Child Protection, Mme Sankaredja-Sinandja Moni, has provided essential equipment to people with disabilities in the Savanes region. The handover ceremony took place on November 4 in Dapaong, marking a crucial step towards empowering individuals with disabilities. This initiative is part of the Project to Support the Socio-Professional Insertion of People with Disabilities in Togo (PAISPHT).
The equipment, comprising 300 professional installation kits across 25 trades, as well as assistive technologies like wheelchairs, tricycles, and canes, aims to enable people with disabilities to initiate or expand their economic activities. By providing these tools, the government seeks to enhance the autonomy and socio-professional inclusion of people with disabilities. The Minister emphasized that the equipment is not only a means of work but also an instrument of emancipation, dignity, and autonomy.
The project, financed by the Togolese state to the tune of 895.255 million F CFA, covers all 39 prefectures in the country. Initially slated for 2024-2026, it has been extended until 2027. Since its inception in September 2023, PAISPHT has made notable progress, including identifying 5,423 people with disabilities, placing 576 in apprenticeships across various trades, and constructing 80 access ramps in public buildings and examination centers.
The project has also facilitated the acquisition and distribution of 603 assistive technologies, including tricycles and wheelchairs. Furthermore, 215 people with disabilities have received vocational training and have been professionally installed. These efforts underscore the government's commitment to fostering an inclusive society where people with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in development.
The Governor of the Savanes region, Atcha-Dédji Affoh, reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting initiatives that promote an inclusive society. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that people with disabilities have the same opportunities for participation in development as others. The Governor's remarks highlight the regional government's dedication to creating a conducive environment for people with disabilities to thrive.
Tchirktéma Damobé, Director of the Association of Motivated People with Disabilities of Tône (APHMOTO), welcomed the initiative, noting that the equipment and tools provided are a passport to economic independence, mobility, and social participation for the beneficiaries. He stressed the need for the beneficiaries to use and manage the equipment judiciously to avoid it being stored or resold. Damobé also called for continuous support for the beneficiaries.
The handover of equipment and tools to people with disabilities in the Savanes region marks a significant milestone in Togo's efforts to promote socio-professional inclusion. With the government's commitment to supporting people with disabilities, there is hope for a more inclusive and equitable society. Key stakeholders have expressed their gratitude to the government and all actors involved in the inclusion and development of the Savanes region.
Key points
- The Togolese government has provided 300 professional installation kits and assistive technologies to people with disabilities in the Savanes region.
- The Project to Support the Socio-Professional Insertion of People with Disabilities in Togo (PAISPHT) has been extended until 2027.
- The project has identified 5,423 people with disabilities and provided vocational training and professional installation for 215 individuals.
