Community-Based Inclusive Development
31 July 2019
In 2019 OFP supported the implementation of a community-based inclusive development (CBID) program, formerly known as community-based rehabilitation (CBR) with the aim to enable disability inclusive local development. Following the CBR Study, a pilot was conducted in Kono and Kambia districts respectively. Many activities to foster inclusion were carried out, including the establishment of a multi-stakeholder platforms at district level referred to District Rehabilitation Team (DRT). The DRT holds monthly meetings to give an update on the human rights situation of children with disabilities in the district and work on strategies for solutions. Parents support groups and CBR volunteers were formed and trained in CBR principles, early identification, community treatment and referrals of children with disabilities. POs mapped out the needs, available resources and conducted radio and community outreach, etc.
As a result, POs have recorded lots of achievements. The district council in Kono and Kambia have established disability desk to guarantee the inclusion of persons with disabilities in local development programs. Through the work of the DRT, Paramount Chiefs in the two pilot districts have publicly condemned discrimination against children with disabilities. There has been increased access to education and health care for children with disabilities. Negative attitudes towards children with disabilities and their families in pilot communities is gradually changing. Persons with disabilities are increasingly participating in decision making at home, community and organization levels. In Kambia for example, where rehabilitation facilities do not exist, WESOFOD was able to provide assistive devices produced from locally sourced materials.
Nevertheless, there is an increased number of referrals and the majority of the services are still not available. There is the need to support the establishment/strengthening of rehabilitation centers in Kambia, Kono, Bombali and Western Area (Urban & Rural) to respond to the needs of children with disabilities.
