Phnom Penh: H.E Chea Somethy, the Minister of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation, underscored the enduring commitment of the Royal Government of Cambodia to disability work, emphasizing the vision of ensuring a high quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The aim is to enable their active, equal, and full participation in a society that upholds rights, dignity, and inclusivity in all areas of development. H.E Chea Somethy made these remarks during the 30th-anniversary celebration of the Department of Prosthetics and Orthotics held at the Cambodiana Hotel on Wednesday, November 22, 2023.

Addressing the gathering, H.E Chea Somethy highlighted the pivotal role of technical training in prosthetics, orthotics, and rehabilitation. This training significantly contributes to the production and deployment of prosthetics, orthotics, and auxiliary equipment at rehabilitation centers nationwide. It aligns with the political agenda for 2023-2028, the first pentagon strategy of the Royal Government, the 7th legislature of the National Assembly, and the strategic plan of the Ministry of Social Affairs, Veterans, and Youth Rehabilitation.

H.E Chea Somethy noted that the Ministry has been actively implementing a five-year strategic plan (2019-2023), designating disability work and the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities as one of its seven priority tasks. These priorities are executed through the efforts of the Disability Action Council, the PWDs Fund, and the Department of Disability Welfare.

Simultaneously, H.E emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to improving the disability sector in Cambodia by enhancing the rights and quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The Ministry facilitates equal access to social and public services, encouraging active participation in various spheres, including political activities, involvement in public and private institutions, contribution to development plans at national and sub-national levels, engagement in arts and sports, and the promotion of the rights and dignity of people with disabilities.

H.E Chea Somethy urged all partners to assess their feasibility and contribute to the shared goal of ensuring the effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of rehabilitation programs for people with disabilities. He called for continued support for the training of prosthetics and orthotics technicians to ensure long-term success.

It is noteworthy that the Royal Government consistently encourages the involvement of national and international NGOs and development partners to design and implement programs that address the diverse needs of people with disabilities.