Representatives of people with disabilities from across the globe are to gather at the Durban ICC for the 8th World Assembly of Disabled People's International from 10-13 October.The Assembly, which is held every four years, will discuss global progress in building inclusive society through the implementation of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and attainment of Millennium Development Goals.

The Assembly, which is being held for the first time in the African continent, will discuss the impact of HIV and AIDS on people with disabilities and the challenge of sexual violence against women and girls with disabilities.Using case studies from various regions of the world, the Assembly will review progress in increasing access to transport and assistive devices that empower people with disabilities to participate in socio-economic activities.

It will receive presentations on global best practice on access to higher education particularly for blind and deaf students and other innovative programmes for skills development and employment of people with disabilities. The Assembly is  hosted by Disabled People South Africa (DPSA) in collaboration with the  Department for Women, Children and People with Disabilities and will be attended by delegates representing disabled people's organizations affiliated to the Disabled People's International (DPI).

Minister for Women, Children and People with Disabilities, Ms Lulu Xingwana said South Africa was proud to be the first country in Africa to host the DPI Assembly and preparations have been made to facilitate movement and full participation of delegates with various disabilities at the Assembly. "Hosting of the DPI Assembly presents South Africa with an opportunity to play a leading role in advancing the rights of people with disabilities and advance towards creating a fully inclusive society," said Minister Xingwana.

DPSA National Chairperson, Mr Muzi Nkosi said the four day Assembly aims to promote human rights, economic and social integration of disabled persons and develop their organizations. "We are looking forward to welcoming all the delegates to the Assembly. This is an opportunity to share best practices in the realization of rights of people with disabilities and ensure that these are replicated across the world," said Mr Nkosi.

Contact: Sibani Mngadi Ministry for Women, Children and People with Disabilities 0827720161