Celebrating Excellence in Disability Inclusion: Council Excellence in Inclusion Award 2024
In a remarkable display of commitment to disability inclusion, the 2024 edition of the Council Excellence in Inclusion Award was launched by Her Excellency Madame the Minister of Social Affairs on September 18th. The event took place during the annual session of the National Committee for the Rehabilitation and Socio-Economic Reintegration of Persons with Disabilities (CONRHA).
This prestigious award, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Social Affairs, the Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services (CBCHS), and the Empowerment and Disability Inclusive Development Program, is generously funded by the Dutch-based Liliane Foundation. It aims to recognize councils that have made significant strides in promoting disability inclusion within their communities.
The award ceremony saw five councils honored for their outstanding efforts, with the following prizes:
– 1st Place: 1.5 million
– 2nd Place: 1 million
– 3rd Place: 700,000
– 4th Place: 500,000
– 5th Place: 400,000
Following the launch, a Google form was distributed to all 360 councils across Cameroon to invite participation. Out of the responses received, 43 councils from 9 regions and 27 divisions were shortlisted after eliminating duplicates. These councils were then assessed by teams from the Ministry of Social Affairs, who collected comprehensive evidence of their disability inclusion initiatives.
A joint review by MINAS and CBCHS staff led to the selection of the winning councils:
– 1st Place: Mbalmayo
– 2nd Place: Maroua 1
– 3rd Place: Bertoua 1
– 4th Place: Fundong
– 5th Place: Yaoundé 4
The Minister of Social Affairs and the Director of CBC Health Services expressed their gratitude to all participating councils for their dedication to disability inclusion. Special recognition was given to the Lord Mayors of Mbalmayo, Maroua 1, Bertoua 1, Fundong, and Yaoundé 4 for their exemplary efforts.
The Ministry of Social Affairs, along with CBC Health Services, CBM, and the Liliane Foundation, reaffirmed their commitment to providing ongoing technical support to further enhance disability-inclusive development across Cameroon.
This initiative not only highlights the importance of inclusive practices but also sets a benchmark for other councils to follow in creating a more inclusive society for all.