WESTERN CAPE – Provincial government puts money where mouth is on promoting inclusion and equality. The Western Cape Department of Social Development (DSD) is leading the charge during Disability Rights Awareness Month, observed annually from 3 November to 3 December, with a renewed commitment to building an inclusive society for people with disabilities.
Minister Jaco Londt announced a significant increase in funding for disability services, with his department’s Services to Persons with Disabilities programme receiving R224 million for the 2025-’26 fiscal year, up from R196 million in the previous year.
Substantial investment in disability services
The increased funding demonstrates the provincial government’s commitment to supporting the disability-enabling sector. Of the total allocation R167 million directly supports 221 non-profit organisations (NPOs) that provide essential services including:
- Day-care programmes for adults and children with disabilities
- Developmental supportive and therapeutic services
- Counselling and support-group programmes
- Programmes for families and caregivers
- Protective-workshop services
- Residential-care services
For instance, the Sivuyile residential facility, which serves both adults and children with disabilities, has been allocated more than R37 million for the 2025-’26 fiscal year, ensuring continued quality care and support.
Breaking new ground in accessibility
A standout initiative is the Disability Accessibility Mossel Bay Model, an ambitious collaborative project aimed at making Mossel Bay South Africa’s first disability-friendly town. This groundbreaking initiative serves as a blueprint for creating truly accessible communities across the province.
Londt emphasised that creating an inclusive society requires collaboration between government departments, NGOs, businesses and communities. “Disability Rights Awareness Month is not just about awareness,” he said, “it’s about action and building lasting change.”
The month-long campaign focuses on promoting inclusion, equality and dignity for people with disabilities while encouraging community members to participate actively in creating accessible spaces.
How the community can help
The department is calling on Western Cape residents to support the disability sector through:
Volunteering: Offering time and skills to local disability organisations
Donations: Providing in-kind donations to support service delivery
Advocacy: Helping promote disability awareness and inclusion in communities
Financial support: Contributing to disability programmes and initiatives
Throughout the year the DSD provides comprehensive support through various programmes designed to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. These services focus on promoting independence, providing therapeutic support and ensuring individuals with disabilities can participate fully in their communities.
The department’s approach emphasises not just care and support, but empowerment and inclusion, recognising that people with disabilities have valuable contributions to make to society.
Residents interested in supporting disability initiatives can:
- Visit their nearest DSD office
- Call the toll-free number 0800 220 250 for more information
- Learn about the Services to Persons with Disabilities programme at www.westerncape.gov.za/social-development/service/persons-disabilities-programme
- Explore Cape Care Fund projects at capecarefund.org.za/project/homes-for-older-persons-and-persons-with-disabilities/
As Disability Rights Awareness Month continues through 3 December, the Western Cape government’s increased investment and community initiatives signal a strong commitment to building a province where every person, regardless of ability, can thrive with dignity and equality.
The success of these initiatives depends on continued collaboration and community support, making this awareness month not just a time for reflection, but a call to action for all Western Cape residents to contribute to a more inclusive society.
