International Day of PWD: Cedar Seed Foundation Advocates for Inclusive Sustainable Development for PWD

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Founder and Executive Director of Cedar Seed Foundation (CSF), Lois Auta Udonkatad, has stressed the critical need for collective action in mobilizing support for issues related to the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWD).

This call was made during the 3rd Edition of the International Disability Dialogue Event held over the weekend in Abuja. The event, themed “United in Action to Rescue and Achieve the SDGs For, With, and By Persons With Disabilities,” served as a platform to highlight the urgency of united efforts in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Lois affirmed, “CSF is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and accessible society for all, and this year’s theme underscores the necessity of united action to rescue and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.”

“This isn’t just a call to action; it’s a directive to raise awareness, break down barriers, and champion an inclusive society,” emphasized Udonkatad.

The foundation has collaborated with various Organizations of Persons with Disabilities, planning impactful activities such as awareness campaigns, a press conference, an award/fundraising dinner, a national disability dialogue, and the launch of the Disability Impact Fund.

Udonkatad highlighted the broad support CSF has received from various organizations, uniting to amplify the message of inclusivity and accessibility.

“As we commemorate IDPD, our coalition aims to ensure readily available resources to empower persons with disabilities,” Udonkatad stated.

Explaining the challenges faced by persons with disabilities, Udonkatad pointed to profound health inequities stemming from conditions like stigma, discrimination, poverty, exclusion from education, and systemic barriers within the healthcare system.

“To achieve an inclusive society, we call on public and private actors to incorporate the principles of Disability Inclusive Service Delivery into their operations,” urged Udonkatad.

“In unity, let us strive towards a world where every individual, regardless of ability, can thrive and contribute meaningfully to a more equitable and sustainable future,” concluded Udonkatad.