DPM receives E1 mln donation of assistive devices for persons with disabilities

By Siphesihle Dlamini

Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla recently received a remarkable donation of assistive devices valued at nearly E1 million, aimed at enhancing the lives of persons living with disabilities throughout Eswatini.

The generous contribution was made by Shalom Disability Ministries, facilitated through the Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF), and was formally presented by Jeee Kim and Juhne Nam, representatives of CEF.

The donation encompasses a wide range of essential mobility aids, including wheelchairs for both children and adults, crutches, canes for the visually impaired, and other vital assistive devices.

This initiative is set to significantly improve the quality of life for many individuals facing mobility challenges across the nation.

During the handover ceremony, Juhne Nam shared the poignant story behind the founding of Shalom Disability Ministries. Established in 1989 by Rev. Moses Park and his wife in South Korea, the ministry arose from a profound personal tragedy.

The couple lost their two daughters in a devastating car accident, which also left Mrs. Park quadriplegic. In the wake of this heart-wrenching experience,

the Parks dedicated their lives to providing love and support to persons with disabilities globally, turning their grief into a mission of compassion and empowerment.

The Deputy Prime Minister expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the Park family for their selfless contributions. “We truly appreciate this generous support from the Park family.

Despite the heartbreaking incident they endured, they chose to spread love to the world and uplift persons with disabilities,” she stated, underscoring the importance of such acts of kindness in fostering a more inclusive society.

In her remarks, Dladla also commended the Federation of Organisations of Disabled People in Swaziland (FODSWA) for their vital role in cultivating a strong partnership with CEF.

This collaboration ensures that vulnerable emaSwati benefit from impactful initiatives aimed at improving their lives. “The partnership between FODSWA and CEF is a testament to what can be achieved when organisations come together for a common cause,” she added.

The donation event not only highlighted the pressing needs of persons with disabilities in Eswatini but also served as a reminder of the collective responsibility to support and uplift marginalised communities.

The assistive devices provided through this generous donation will enable individuals to navigate their daily lives with greater ease and independence, fostering a sense of dignity and self-worth.