By Ibrahim Sesay
The National Commission for Persons with Disability (NCPD) has intensified advocacy by engaging the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) on extending free Identification Cards to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across Sierra Leone.
On Friday, 26th September 2025, NCPD Chairman Brima Abdulai Sheriff and Executive Secretary held a strategic meeting with NCRA Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi at the Authority’s headquarters in Freetown.
During the engagement, Brima Abdulai Sheriff expressed appreciation to the NCRA for piloting the provision of free ID cards to a group of PWDs in Freetown. He described the move as “a show of inclusion and a model worth emulating by other partners,” emphasizing that such efforts align with his PRIDE strategy, which seeks to promote the welfare and full participation of PWDs in national development.
The NCPD Chairman further appealed for the initiative to be rolled out nationwide, ensuring that PWDs in all districts benefit. He also urged the NCRA boss to serve as an ambassador for disability rights by adhering to Section 19 of the Persons with Disability Act of 2011, which calls for a specific employment quota for PWDs.
In response, Director General, Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi, assured the NCPD that the Authority’s decision was intentional, aimed at removing barriers for PWDs who cannot afford identification cards. “PWDs form a critical part of our society and they shouldn’t be left out,” he said, reaffirming his institution’s commitment to inclusion under his leadership.
Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi also welcomed Brima Sheriff’s appeal and revealed plans to convene a meeting with development partners working with the NCPD. The proposed dialogue will explore ways to expedite and support the registration of PWDs nationwide, thereby guaranteeing equal access to national identification and public services.
