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The Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminty, has distributed 50 bags of rice to persons living with disabilities and other vulnerable groups in Kono District.
The donation took place at the Social Welfare Office in Kono following the conclusion of a three-day Annual Strategic Planning Retreat organized by the Ministry of Social Welfare.
Speaking during the distribution ceremony, Minister Karminty conveyed greetings from President Julius Maada Bio and stated that the gesture forms part of the government’s broader agenda to support and empower persons with disabilities. She reiterated the administration’s commitment to inclusive national development and targeted interventions for vulnerable populations.
The Minister also highlighted the strengthened mandate of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD), noting its role in providing assistive devices, skills training, livelihood support, and enforcing provisions of the Disability Act. She emphasized continued collaboration between the Ministry and the Commission in advancing initiatives in education, agriculture, and certification programmes.
In his response, NCPD Chairperson Brima Sheriff described the donation as a direct response to identified community needs rather than a symbolic gesture. He commended the Ministry for translating policy discussions into tangible support for beneficiaries.
Representing persons with disabilities in Kono, the district chairlady, Hawa, expressed appreciation for the assistance, citing the rising cost of living as a major challenge. She called for sustained investment in skills training and affordable certification opportunities to enhance self-reliance within the community.
The donation reflects ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Social Welfare to align strategic planning with practical support measures aimed at strengthening social protection systems across Sierra Leone.
