Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Anambra-based human rights advocate and journalist, Ms Chidimma Ajemba, has called for increased tracking of policies and projects relating to persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Anambra State.
Ajemba made the call in Amawbia, Awka South Local Government Area, during a GovTracker stepdown training on “Empowering Youth for Government Budgeting, Transparency & Accountability, supported by Webfala Digital Skills for All Initiative (WEDFAI).
She urged people of the state particularly persons with disabilities to embrace and utilize “Solution Lens” platform newly introduced by Anambra State Government to enable them effectively track progress of policies and government projects that affect them.
Ikengaonline reports that “Solution Lens” civic tech platform was recently introduced by Governor Chukwuma Soludo-led government to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen participation across the state.
Addressing participants, including government officials, civil society organizations, media practitioners, and representatives of the five disability clusters in Anambra State, Ajemba emphasized the need for systematic monitoring to expose policy gaps and service delivery failures affecting PWDs.
“We all have a role to play in the society in ensuring transparency and accountability. Anambra State Government recently launched a website called solution lens. There, one can log in and check what is happening in the state regarding projects carried out and how far it has gone.
“Tracking instances of exclusion and marginalization, stakeholders in government can develop targeted interventions to address our specific needs,” she said.
Ajemba also said embracing the solution lens will facilitate the development and implementation of policies and programmes that protect the rights of PWDs and foster an inclusive society.
Continuing, the activist encouraged Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the state to consistently scrutinize government allocations and their implementation, noting that asking pertinent questions is crucial to understanding the utilization and impact of budgets and policies on their lives.
“As persons with disabilities, we are aware of various budget plans, including the annual allocation for International Day for Persons with Disabilities. Yet, year after year, we see little to no impact from this budget. Instead of progress, we are often referred back and forth.
“We need answers on budgets utilization and impact. We need to start asking questions to ensure that things get done the right way. By probing into budget allocations, we can bring forth our suggestions and hold our leaders accountable, even at the local government level.
“For instance, we should ask about the budget for organizing International Day for Persons with Disabilities, White Cane Day, and Wheelchair Day, which are all captured in the budget but seemingly not celebrated.
“It is crucial to understand why these special days, designated by UNESCO and other international bodies, aren’t being observed in Anambra State. Additionally, we need to inquire about the budget for PWDs’ education, subsidies for our studies, and rehabilitation centers in our state.
“We should also advocate for accessibility features in public spaces, such as the renovated Ekwueme Square and government buildings, as mandated by the Anambra Disabilities Law.
“Furthermore, traffic lights in Awka should be equipped with audio signals for visually impaired individuals. Budget tracking is not just about government accountability but also about ensuring inclusivity in our plans.
“It’s time for us to speak up and ask the right questions. When government facilities are accessible, it sets a precedent for private individuals to follow. We need to demand more from our government and leaders to live an independent life,” she concluded.
