The dreams of many Sierra Leoneans yearning for a new political force that prioritises the welfare of ordinary citizens are gradually being felt across different segments of society, particularly among persons with disabilities in the Western Area Rural District.
For many members of the disability community in Waterloo, life has been marked by serious economic and social challenges. However, hope and excitement filled the community on Sunday when representatives of the Humble Africans Development Party (HADP) came to their aid with a donation of Le28,000 and two bags of rice.
Singing and celebrations dominated the atmosphere as members of the disability community received the donation, chanting: “HADP na you we want. We dae tell una tenki for watin una do for we.”
The donation was made by the party’s Western Area Chairman, Ibrahim Cotor Bah, on behalf of the National Chairman and Leader of HADP, Abubakarr Alharazim.
Speaking during the presentation, Chairman Bah said the gesture was motivated by the party’s firm belief that persons with disabilities are an integral part of society and must not be left behind in national development.
He said HADP remains committed to promoting dignity, inclusion, equal opportunities and respect for all citizens, regardless of their physical condition.
Chairman Bah explained that the intervention was inspired by the compassion and vision of the party’s National Chairman and Leader, Abubakarr Alharazim, whom he described as deeply committed to protecting and empowering vulnerable groups across Sierra Leone.
He emphasised that Alharazim recognises the resilience, determination and valuable contributions of persons with disabilities to national development.
According to Chairman Bah, the HADP Leader believes that disability does not diminish a person’s worth, potential or ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
“Persons with disabilities are capable citizens who deserve equal access to opportunities, education, employment and leadership,” he stated.
Chairman Bah further noted that Alharazim’s vision for Sierra Leone is one in which every citizen is valued, respected and empowered to reach their full potential.
He stressed that HADP’s commitment to persons with disabilities goes beyond donations and charitable gestures, describing it as part of the party’s broader commitment to social justice, equality and human dignity.
“The Humble Africans Development Party is not only concerned with politics. We are concerned about people. We are concerned about the daily realities facing our citizens, especially those who need support, recognition and equal opportunities. We believe that a nation can only grow when no one is left behind,” Chairman Bah said.
He encouraged members of the disability community to remain hopeful and continue engaging with HADP, assuring them that the party’s leadership is prepared to listen to their concerns and work towards practical solutions to improve their lives and strengthen their participation in society.
Receiving the donation, the Public Relations Officer of the Waterloo Community Football and Disability Leadership expressed appreciation to Alharazim and Chairman Bah for responding to the community’s concerns.
The PRO described the donation as a demonstration of care and solidarity with persons with disabilities, reiterating that “there is no inability in disability.”
He said persons with disabilities possess talents, skills and abilities that can contribute significantly to national development when provided with the necessary support and opportunities.
He noted that the community had previously raised concerns about their welfare and expressed encouragement over HADP’s positive response.
The PRO appealed for continued engagement and support while urging members of the community to embrace the party’s message of unity, inclusion and collective responsibility.
He also referenced HADP’s guiding philosophy: “Each One Reach One, Each One Teach One, Each One Lift One,” describing it as a call for citizens to support one another and ensure that vulnerable members of society are not left behind.
The engagement concluded with renewed assurances of continued collaboration between HADP and the disability community, with both sides expressing their commitment to building a more inclusive, compassionate and equitable Sierra Leone.
The programme climaxed with songs of appreciation from members of the disability community, who sang:
