A wave of excitement swept through Piliura Village on 3 December as the Nguna/Pele (NAPE) Area Council led a heartfelt celebration of Disability Day. The event drew people from all walks of life, united by a shared goal recognizing and uplifting persons with disabilities.
The Daleroau Disability Association took centre stage, with its members and their families gathering in a joyful and inspiring show of community spirit.
Tristelle Karae of the Ministry of Youth, Justice and Community Services reaffirmed the government’s commitment, alongside its partners, to supporting and advocating for the rights and needs of persons with disabilities.
Stakeholders, including several non-governmental organizations, were acknowledged for their ongoing efforts in implementing government policies aimed at assisting people living with various impairments. Participants were also informed that the government intends to review its disability policy in the coming year and begin drafting a new Disability Law that will reflect the perspectives and experiences of community members.
Shefa Provincial Government Councillor Jeffrey Kenneth emphasized the importance of the government’s decentralization policy and recognized the support provided to staff from the Vanuatu Ministry of Justice and Community Services. He described the establishment of the new Shefa Disability Committee as a significant step forward that will strengthen coordination between area council committees and authorities at the provincial and national levels.
Mr. Charley Liu of the Daleroau Disability Association noted that substantial work remains to effectively address the needs of persons with disabilities at the community level. He encouraged community members to adopt more inclusive attitudes and offer greater care and support.
The Daleroau Disability Association currently has 36 registered members 13 women and 23 men. The celebration concluded with skit performances and the ceremonial handing over of a stick fire to the next host village. Utanlang Village on Nguna Island is set to host the Disability Day celebrations in 2026.
The Shefa Disability Desk extended its appreciation to the chief and the people of Piliura Village for their warm hospitality, Ministry of Youth, Justice and Community Services, Vanuatu Skills Partnership, Action Aid, and all individuals whose support helped make the celebration memorable.