President Gokhool highlights need to rethink disability with Dignity and Inclusion during discussions with key stakeholders. I chaired a first high-level brainstorming session at State House today, which focused on disability and inclusion—a cause that remains my core priority area and demands not only attention but collective action.
The session was attended by:
- H.E. Ms. Lisa Simrique Singh, UN Resident Coordinator for Mauritius and Seychelles;
- Dr. Anne-Marie Ancia, Representative of the World Health Organisation, and
- Ms. Josiane Yaguibou, United Nations Population Fund Country Director.
Too often, the issue of disability is addressed in a fragmented way, leading to scattered efforts and limited impact.
We must move toward a more unified and impactful approach, with all agencies working hand in hand to drive real, lasting change.
We also exchanged perspectives on:
- The need to shift from viewing disability through a medical or charitable lens to embracing a human rights-based approach that fosters dignity, equity and participation;
- The urgency to ensure equitable access of persons with disabilities to public infrastructure,
- The power of local leadership and community engagement, especially in raising awareness, changing attitudes, and community engagement,
- The lack of support systems, that prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in our economy and society,
- The need to empower parents and families who take care of persons with disabilities,
- Training and evidence-based research for policymaking.
We also talked about how people with disabilities face an even higher risk of non-communicable diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, and how prevention must become a priority.
I welcome the proposal to convene a high-level meeting with both public and private sector partners to advance this agenda.
Our vision for an inclusive Mauritius must be bold, compassionate, and grounded in collective action.