Attorney General Champions Disability Inclusion at Launch of UN-Indian Funds Initiative
Sierra Palms Hotel, Lumley Beach, Freetown — Friday, 11 July 2025—-The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Alpha Sesay Esq., delivered the keynote address at the official launch of the UN-Indian Funds for Persons with Disabilities. The event, held under the theme: “Enabling Economic Independence for Specially Abled Persons — A South-South Cooperation Initiative,” was organised by the Ministry of Social Welfare in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the High Commission of India in Sierra Leone, representing the Government of India.
Addressing stakeholders, development partners, and civil society representatives, Attorney General Sesay underscored the transformative potential of the Fund. He described the initiative not merely as a financial resource, but as a catalyst for freedom and self-reliance for persons with disabilities across Sierra Leone. “The launch of this Fund is far more than a financial transaction — it is about freedom. When a disabled entrepreneur hires others, innovates, and thrives, they do more than build a business; they redefine societal attitudes. They stand as visible leaders and role models, shifting our collective mindset from dependence to excellence,” he affirmed.
Emphasising the Government’s commitment to inclusion, Attorney General Sesay noted that empowering persons with disabilities is not charity, but a clear demonstration of governance that works for everyone. “Inclusion for persons with disabilities is not a gesture — it is governance in action. It is justice realised through access, equity, and opportunity. As a Ministry, we are committed to working closely with stakeholders to review outdated laws, dismantle barriers to justice, and guarantee access to legal aid for persons with disabilities, he declared.
He further highlighted the Government’s ongoing constitutional and legislative reforms aimed at strengthening the rights and participation of persons with disabilities. He emphasised that the upcoming new Constitution will enshrine provisions to guarantee full inclusion in governance and service delivery.
In addition, the Attorney General cited the recently enacted Criminal Procedure Act, which makes clear commitments to improve access to justice for persons with disabilities and other disadvantaged groups, ensuring fair treatment, protection, and meaningful participation during court proceedings. “The new Criminal Procedure Act demonstrates our unwavering resolve to build a fair and inclusive justice system for all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of status or ability,” he concluded.
The launch ceremony brought together senior government officials, development partners, diplomatic missions, civil society organisations, and representatives of the disability community. The collaboration between the Government of India, UNDP, and Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Social Welfare symbolises a strong commitment to advancing South-South cooperation for inclusive economic empowerment.
The event closed with a call for stronger partnerships and collective responsibility to break barriers, create equal opportunities, and ensure that every person — regardless of physical ability — can live with dignity, contribute to society, and achieve economic independence.
As Sierra Leone continues on its path of constitutional renewal and legal reform, initiatives such as the UN-Indian Funds for Persons with Disabilities serve as a reminder that true national development leaves no one behind.