Public participation in supporting nationals with natural disability being stepped up

The participation of the public in the ongoing community-based rehabilitation program of nationals with natural disability is gaining momentum, according to Mr. Tesfu Solomon, head of social security in the Ministry of Labor and Human Welfare branch in the Central region.

Asmara, 20 April 2010 – The participation of the public in the ongoing community-based rehabilitation program of nationals with natural disability is gaining momentum, according to Mr. Tesfu Solomon, head of social security in the Ministry of Labor and Human Welfare branch in the Central region.

He indicated that the community-based rehabilitation program that was launched in remote areas is aimed at enabling persons with natural disability become beneficiaries of various services in their respective home villages. The endeavors have already borne fruitful outcome thanks to the active popular participation, Mr. Tesfu added.

He further explained that voluntary employees have been elected from each village and that the necessary training course has been given to them by health professionals and other experts.

Reports indicated that there are over 2,300 persons suffering from natural disability being rehabilitated through the program. Different types of assistance, including artificial limbs, crutches, wheelchairs, shoes and others have been extended to the beneficiaries.

Reports further pointed out that over 1 million Nakfa was extended by the Government and about 456,000 Nakfa by the community to the program over the past 3 years. Besides, an interest-free loan amounting to 23 million Nakfa has been extended to a total of 882 disabled persons.