SWAKOPMUND – Erongo governor Neville Andre has said there is a need for Namibians to follow an open and inclusive policy-making process.
He emphasised that the legislative frameworks being followed should be transparent, evidence-driven, accessible and responsive to as wide a range of citizens as possible, especially persons with disabilities.
He made these remarks during a consultative workshop in Swakopmund, which was hosted to deliberate on the persons with disabilities draft bill and the National Policy on Disability, both of which aim to incorporate the principles entrenched in the United Nations Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) into the domestic statutory framework.
The Namibian policy, legislative and institutional framework is conducive to addressing the rights of persons with disabilities.
The ratification of the UN Convention on 4 December 2007, along with the Optional Protocol, reaffirmed the Namibian government’s commitment to protecting, promoting and fulfilling the rights of persons with disabilities urgently.
It also committed to upholding the human rights of persons with disabilities, as well as developing and reviewing policies and legislation to ensure alignment with the Convention.
Andre emphasised that this process will not only ensure Namibia’s compliance with international obligations but also guarantee necessary protection for persons with disabilities in Namibia.
The bill further aims to establish that Namibia and the National Disability Council of Namibia (NDCN) are assertive in matters and issues related to persons with disabilities.
“We remain positive that the team is committed to the process and will submit this Bill and Policy to Parliament by the end of this year,” he appealed.
Angelique Philander, CEO of the National Disability Council, highlighted that these consultations are taking place due to an outdated national policy on disability that was established back in 1997.
She noted that this policy no longer aligns with the current needs and advancements of people living with disabilities.
“As part of our ongoing efforts, we have initiated a series of consultations, and I’m pleased to share our progress. The consultations initially commenced in the northern and southern regions before we came to Erongo. Our journey doesn’t stop here – we intend to continue these discussions, progressing towards central regions and ensuring that every voice is heard,” she explained.
Philander emphasised that the purpose of this consultative workshop is significant, as they aim to develop a comprehensive and up-to-date national policy on disability.
This new policy will supersede the existing framework and also replace the role of the National Disability Council.
She appealed: “This new policy will be intertwined with the drafting of the National Persons with Disabilities Act, an initiative that holds paramount importance. Therefore, we urge all to take part in the discussions, as inclusivity is our guiding principle and we recognise that a policy with far-reaching impact must be crafted through collaboration to safeguard the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities”.
She added that they are committed to aligning their legislative and policy frameworks with international standards, including those set by the United Nations.
They understand the significance of these frameworks at a national level, encompassing the country’s constitution and other pertinent laws.
“Together, we’re not only shaping policies but also fostering a society that embraces diversity and empowers every individual,” she said.