By; ABDULGAFAR ALEBELEWE, Kaduna
TAF Africa has partnered Police, Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU), Kaduna Vigilance Service (KADVIS) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) on strengthening governance and rule of law for disability inclusion at the grassroots in Kaduna State.
TAF Africa spearheads an initiative that fights for the rights of people with disability (PWD), ensuring easy access to their civic responsibilities, inclusion in governance and active political participation, is supported with funding from the Canadian Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI).
The TAF Africa project team, led by Programme Officer, Mr. Godfrey Oche Ogah, with Senior Programme Officer, Mr. George Dominic Awanyi and Corporate Services & Compliance Lead, Barrister Uche Enyioha conducted a series of advocacy visits to seek the stakeholders’ support in achieving the objectives of fortifying governance institutions and legal frameworks and fostering disability inclusion at the grassroots level in Kaduna state.
It aims at establishing inclusive and accessible environment, and ensuring active political participation for persons with disabilities. Addressing the Nigeria Police Force, they discussed strategies to improve interactions between the Police force and persons with disabilities.
They also advocated for inclusive practices in law enforcement, ensuring the protection and respect of the rights of all individuals.
At Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), the TAF Africa team engaged in discussions to garner support and collaboration for the project’s objectives.
They also explored avenues for partnership in advocating inclusive governance within the Arewa community.
The TAF team at Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU) shared project goals and sought collaboration to ensure the inclusion of Southern Kaduna in the initiative. They discussed strategies for promoting awareness and advocating for disability rights within the region.
At the Kaduna State Vigilante Service, TAF Africa explored ways to enhance the capacity of the Vigilante Service in promoting security and safety for persons with disabilities. They also discussed the importance of an inclusive approach in community safety initiatives.
While at Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, TAF Africa advocated for improved understanding and sensitivity among NSCDC officers regarding disability-related issues. They also explored avenues for collaboration to enhance the NSCDC’s role in fostering an inclusive and secure environment.
The next steps for TAF Africa include partnership agreements, capacity building workshop, implementation of advocacy initiatives, policy advocacy and reforms as well as community engagement programmes.
