In a landmark achievement for the deaf community in Mali, the Special Prosecutor of the Kita District Court has granted the Association Malienne pour les Sourds (AMASOURDS) and its members a significant opportunity. This decision, made in response to a request from the WCARS project, represents a pivotal step toward the project’s mission of empowering the deaf community through advocacy and employment. The recent job placements for deaf individuals in the Kita Region mark a notable advancement toward Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. This initiative directly fosters economic growth and decent work opportunities for marginalized groups, including the deaf community.

The breakthrough came after a visit by Rokiatou Maiga, the Country Project Officer of WCARS, and Mr. Keita Moussa, Director of AMASOURDS, to the Special Prosecutor’s office. During their meeting, Maiga and Moussa passionately presented the case for the inclusion and economic empowerment of the deaf community, detailing the employment barriers faced by deaf individuals and the transformative impact that job opportunities can offer.

Moved by their advocacy, the Special Prosecutor agreed to offer positions to four deaf men as motorcycle attendants at the Kita District Court Parking Lot. This decision not only reflects a commitment to social justice but also acknowledges the valuable contributions that deaf individuals can make.

The announcement of these job placements has been met with immense enthusiasm and gratitude from the deaf community. AMASOURDS members have expressed profound appreciation for the prosecutor’s support, seeing these positions as a catalyst for broader change and an inspiration for further advocacy.

Linking to Sustainable Development Goal 8 and the UNCRPD
This milestone aligns with the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which underscores the importance of inclusive employment and equal work opportunities for persons with disabilities. By offering employment to deaf individuals, this initiative promotes their full inclusion and participation in society.

The achievement highlights the impact of advocacy and collaboration in overcoming challenges faced by marginalized communities. By contributing to SDG 8 and upholding the UNCRPD, this initiative fosters a more just, equitable, and inclusive future for all.

The WCARS project, dedicated to enhancing the advocacy and economic empowerment of deaf organizations, has been instrumental in achieving this positive outcome. By uniting key stakeholders and raising awareness of the needs of the deaf community, the project has contributed to the creation of a more inclusive and equitable society.

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