World Hope International successfully organised its annual Beach Festival at Aberdeen Beach, opposite Family Kingdom, bringing together over a thousand children with disabilities and their families for a celebration and inclusion.
In her welcome address, the Regional Leader of World Hope International, Madam Grace Kargbo, emphasised that the event is dedicated to children living with disabilities in Freetown, specifically in the Aberdeen Beach area. She expressed her delight in hosting such a special occasion, highlighting that the festival is more than just a day at the beach—a celebration of strength, resilience, and unity among children and their families. She acknowledged the support of key partners, including the United Kingdom, the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), Lottery International, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Government of Harry Land, Rokel Commercial Bank, Family Kingdom Resort, the Children's Commission, the Ministry of Gender and Children's Affairs, private individuals, and faith-based organisations from the United States. She expressed gratitude for their generous contributions, which made the event possible.
The Chairperson of the Beach Festival, Deputy Chief of the Ministry of Social Welfare, Mr. Francis Kabia, provided a brief history of the annual event. He noted that World Hope International has consistently organised the Beach Festival to raise awareness and funds for its various humanitarian programs. The event featured recreational activities, entertainment, and interactive sessions, providing participants with an enjoyable experience while supporting a meaningful cause. He also highlighted the inclusion of beach games, family-oriented activities, and live entertainment to create a vibrant festival atmosphere.
Speaking at the event, British High Commissioner Josephine Gauld expressed her delight in attending the festival. She commended the families of children with disabilities for their unwavering support and care. She reassured attendees that the United Kingdom would continue contributing to World Hope International to support children with special needs. She also appreciated the Ministry of Social Welfare's commitment to disability inclusion.
In his address, Dr David Moinina Sengeh, the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, thanked World Hope International for its humanitarian efforts and reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens, stating, “Everyone is born whole; no one is a half individual. Our government is committed to making sure that everyone is treated equally.”
Minister of Social Welfare, Madam Melrose Karminty, also addressed the gathering, extending appreciation to World Hope International and welcoming key officials, including the Deputy Minister of Social Welfare, the Chief Director, the Deputy Chief, the Director of Mental Health, and the Acting Director of Religious Affairs. She reaffirmed her ministry’s strong mandate to support children with disabilities, whom she referred to as “children with special needs.” She emphasised that these children are close to her heart and that her ministry is committed to giving them special attention. She also announced that her ministry is in the final stages of passing the Disability Act in Parliament, which will benefit children with special needs significantly. Additionally, she called on international donors to continue supporting her ministry's efforts. In a gesture of support, she presented 32 cartons of packaged rice from World Hope International to the children in attendance.
World Hope International called on all ministries, departments, agencies, and private organisations to prioritise the welfare of children with disabilities and to continue advocating for their inclusion and support.
Correspondent: Abu Bakarr Sama
Phone: 077267549 / 076626242
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