A moving show of solidarity and compassion came from the Ministry of Social Welfare (MOSW) and the National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD), who stepped forward to support vulnerable communities during the rainy season. The Help Empowerment Polio Organization (HEPO) home on Pademba Road was filled with hope and joy on Friday, August 15, 2025, when Minister of Social Welfare, Melrose Karminity and the newly appointed NCPD Chairman, Brima Abdulia Sheriff, distributed bags of rice to persons with disabilities (PWDs).
Speaking during the presentation, Minister Melrose Karminity reaffirmed the Government’s unwavering commitment to supporting PWDs across Sierra Leone under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio. She emphasized that the rice donation was part of a nationwide initiative to cushion vulnerable groups against the unique hardships they face during the rainy season.
“Our Ministry has made a deliberate decision to support PWDs and the vulnerable with rice donations, recognizing the challenges they face during the rains,” she stated.
The Minister explained that during heavy downpours, many disabled individuals are unable to move about, making survival even more difficult. “When there is a heavy downpour and you are unable to go out, the rice is there for you and your family,” she said.
During the event, Minister Melrose Karminity officially introduced Brima Abdulia Sheriff as the new Chairman of the NCPD, praising his qualifications and dedication. “He is not only a disabled person who understands the realities of PWDs but he also brings deep knowledge and experience on disability issues,” she noted assuring the community that he has genuine intentions to improve their welfare.
In his remarks, Chairman Brima Abdulai Sheriff expressed gratitude for the Minister’s confidence and pledged to work closely with the Ministry in advancing disability rights.
“I am in office to ensure that laws around disability are fully implemented, fundamentally changing the lives of PWDs for the better,” he declared.
He outlined plans for institutional strengthening stressing that the Commission must be fully empowered to address the complex issues affecting PWDs nationwide.
John Conteh, Acting Director of Religious and Social Services, revealed that the rice donation was made possible through support from Caritas, specifically targeted at PWDs and other vulnerable groups. He assured beneficiaries that the Ministry would uphold transparency and accountability, ensuring donations reached the intended communities without diversion.
The event also saw heartfelt appreciation from HEPO representatives. Tamba Gborie, Chairman of HEPO, thanked the Ministry and Government for their consistent support. “We have benefited greatly from disability programs implemented by the Government,” he said, while pledging HEPO’s cooperation with the new NCPD leadership.
Chairlady, Esther Kallon, echoed those sentiments, assuring the Ministry and Commission of HEPO’s commitment to collaboration.
The initiative by MOSW and NCPD, supported by Caritas, reflects a Government taking practical steps to protect the dignity and welfare of persons with disabilities especially during difficult times. It underscores the Bio-led administration’s commitment not only to inclusion but also to delivering tangible support where it is needed most.
