UNAMID marks Mandela Day with persons with disabilities in Central Darfur

Photo by Mohammed Idriss, UNAMID.

Photo by Mohammed Idriss, UNAMID.

Photo by Mohammed Idriss, UNAMID.

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23 Jul 2020

UNAMID marks Mandela Day with persons with disabilities in Central Darfur

Zalingei, 22 July 2020-UNAMID’s Communications and Public Information Section (CPIS), in partnership with the Central Darfur Disabled Union (CDDU), on 20 July commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day at the CDDU Headquarters in Zalingei, capital of Central Darfur State.

Held under the theme: “Take action, Inspire Change,” the commemorative event was preceded by the painting of CDDU Headquarters, through UNAMID financial support. The 67-minutes of community service, encouraged by the Nelson Mandela Foundation for the Day’s observance, involved cleaning of the office buildings and environs of the operational premises by the Zalingei Boys Scout Association. CPIS also handed over hygiene materials such as soap, hand sanitizers, water rollers and solar radio sets. Distribution of the latter item is aimed providing CDDU members with access to information on COVID-19, Sudan peace process and related socio-economic issues.

Speaking at the commemorative event, on behalf of the Central Darfur Disabled Union, Mr. Adam Ahmed Ibrahim expressed his appreciation to UNAMID’s continued support to persons with disabilities in Darfur. He emphasized that the CDDU will continue to engage relevant stakeholders such as UN Agencies, local authorities and UNAMID to highlight the urgent need to construct appropriate toilet amenities at their Headquarters. Mr. Ibrahim also requested additional support with various critical items that would facilitate impactful operations of CDDU in the state that has a current membership of almost 14,000 members.

On his part, Dr. Mudathir Mohammed Abdulrasool, a representative of the Central Darfur State Ministry of Health and Social Development, appealed for cohesion in work approach amongst CDDU partners to ensure that needed financial support is secured and vital CDDU projects implemented in a timely manner.

Mandela Day is an annual international observance held in honor of the late former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela. This Day is celebrated each year on 18 July, Mandela's birthday. The Day was officially declared by the United Nations in November 2009, with the first UN Mandela Day held on 18 July 2010. The overarching objective of the Day is to inspire individuals to take action to help change the world for the better, and in doing so build a global movement for good. Ultimately it seeks to empower communities everywhere. “Take Action; Inspire Change; Make Every Day a Mandela Day.”