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Disability Doesn’t Mean Inability; The Physically Challenged Can Still Fly Without Wings

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Everyone, irrespective of their physical condition deserve the right to participate in every aspect of life to the fullest extent possible. The past few weeks has opened my mind and eyes to the emotions and barriers young people living with physical disabilities face daily.

A rollercoaster of emotions, from isolation, to sadness, low self esteem and physical pain did I experience as I couldn’t participate wholly in most of the classes and fun games my peers were involved in because of Fasciitis Plautaris. As I sat by my balcony wallowing in self pity and  pain in my heels, I immediately remembered 16 Year Old Emma in the Southern part of Nigeria who couldn’t attend classes for months due to the unbearable pain she felt in both feet, which affected her mobility, over time her condition deteriorated due to lack of proper medical attention. Her difficulty in mobility has also become a barrier to the fulfilment of her dreams and goals in life.

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Disability inclusion is crucial for achieving equitable and sustainable development in the continent.

Disability Inclusion

Sustainable development refers to development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Disability inclusion means ensuring that persons with disabilities are included and not left behind in development initiatives, programs and policies.

Globally, there are over 1 billion persons with disabilities, with 80% of them living in developing countries. In Africa, the figure is estimated to be between 60 and 80 million. Persons with disabilities face multiple barriers to their participation in all aspects of society including education, employment, health, transport, and social and cultural participation. They are often considered as a burden rather than as valuable contributors to society.

 

In Africa, disability inclusion is gaining momentum, but there is still a long way to go. The implementation has been a great challenge.

 

Emma’s situation highlights two sustainable development goals: good health and well-being and quality education.

Good health and well-being is one of the sustainable development goals, and it aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all, at all ages. Emma’s condition is one of the many health complications that teenagers experience, and it is essential to ensure that they receive prompt and quality healthcare. Early detection and treatment of conditions like Plautaris heel spur prevent complications and ensure that teenagers receive the care they need.

Quality education is also crucial in achieving sustainable development goals. Access to excellent education promotes gender equality, reduces poverty, and creates economic opportunities that contribute to economic growth. Emma’s condition challenges her mobility and limits her participation in school activities. It is, therefore, essential to ensure that Emma receives access to education that accommodates her condition.

Emma’s situation emphasizes the importance of accommodating individuals with disabilities and ensuring access to education that allows them to thrive. Achieving sustainable development goals means creating a better future for all, and it starts by prioritizing the needs of people like Emma.

Emma’s health condition emphasizes the significance of providing timely and quality healthcare services, especially to teenagers.

Disability inclusion in relation to sustainable development goals in Africa is a critical agenda that requires concerted efforts from governments and civil organizations.

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