The Rivers State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering inclusive governance through a strategic partnership with TAF Africa, with a focus on enhancing opportunities for Persons Living With Disabilities (PWDs).
The announcement came at the opening of a two-day capacity-building workshop for 31 Disability and Gender Desk Officers, organized by TAF Africa on Monday in Port Harcourt.
Head of Service, Dr. Inyingi Brown,
represented by Mr. Chimenum Mpi, Director of Administration, highlighted that the State Government had appointed Disability and Gender Desk Officers across 31 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
She described the collaboration with TAF Africa as a key step toward building a public service that is fair, accessible, and dignified for all citizens.
“Your work strengthens institutions, shapes policies, and gives voice and visibility to PWDs across our state.
She urged participants to apply their training to create meaningful, practical change within their offices and society.
Brown also pledged continued support for partnerships that promote global best practices in disability-inclusive governance.
TAF Africa’s CEO and Founder, Mr. Jake Epelle, welcomed the collaboration, noting that the initiative would enhance accountability, inclusive policy implementation, and service delivery for citizens with disabilities.
He described the establishment of the desk officers and the training programme as a milestone in advancing disability-inclusive governance in Rivers State.
The training, part of TAF Africa’s Disability Inclusive Governance Project funded by the Disability Rights Fund, aims to equip officers with practical skills and strategies to champion disability inclusion within their respective MDAs.
Epelle said Rivers State’s proactive engagement demonstrates a strong commitment to upholding the rights, dignity, and participation of PWDs in public life.
Keynote speaker Dr. Krakrafaa Bestman emphasised the importance of inclusivity and diversity in governance, urging leaders to move beyond mere compliance to achieving measurable impact in disability inclusion across policies and service delivery.
The event was attended by government officials, civil servants, and partners, all focused on translating policy into practical action to ensure that governance in Rivers State reflects true inclusion for PWDs.
