Lesotho Gears Up for Launch of Long-Awaited Disability Advisory Council

Preparations are at an advanced stage for the official launch of Lesotho’s long-awaited Disability Advisory Council, scheduled to take place next month. This milestone marks a significant step towards improving disability inclusion and strengthening the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities in the country.

Speaking to the media, the Director General of the Disability Advisory Council, Advocate Nkhasi Sefuthi, confirmed that the new office became operational in April. Currently, the council has five dedicated staff members drawn from various government departments, with plans already underway to expand the team as the council’s work intensifies.

Advocate Sefuthi emphasized that while the official launch is pending, the Council itself has already been inaugurated and has started laying the groundwork for its full operationalization. He explained that one of the Council’s key responsibilities is to monitor the implementation of the Persons with Disability Equity Act, which was enacted in 2021.

“The Council is entrusted with the task of giving direction on matters affecting persons with disabilities and providing advice to the government on disability-related laws and policies,” said Advocate Sefuthi.

He added that the Council’s role will also include ensuring that persons with disabilities are given equal opportunities and that their voices are heard at all levels of governance and service delivery.

The upcoming launch is expected to attract stakeholders from across government, civil society, and the disability rights movement, signaling a renewed national commitment to disability equity and inclusion in Lesotho.

As preparations continue, many are hopeful that the Council will drive meaningful change and help create a more accessible and inclusive society for all Basotho living with disabilities.