At workshop: NW Public Independent Conciliator reviews implementation of disability law.

The event, which took place on December 4 and 5 in Bamenda, came just a day after the global observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, celebrated this year under the theme “Innovation for inclusion: Building inclusive communities together”

In his opening address, the Public Independent Conciliator, Tamfu Simon Fai, noted PIC’s mandate, which includes resolving disputes between councils and citizens, combating discrimination, ensuring ethics in council services, and proposing reforms that improve public service delivery. 

Workshop objectives

Tamfu emphasised that the workshop was designed not only to present these missions, but also to strengthen collaboration with organisations of persons with disabilities in the region.

“The PIC was created to make sure that people are not marginalised or discriminated against. We had some complaints from persons with disabilities that they did not get the right services from some councils. So, we want to make sure that the law is applied, and they enjoy their rights as citizens of Cameroon,” Tamfu said.

“Organising this workshop at this juncture is timely. It is special, given the special place you hold in our hearts,” Tamfu added.

The workshop, considered one of the PIC’s most inclusive events so far, brought together regional delegates, council representatives, disability organisations, and development partners. 

Over the two days, participants revisited the legal framework governing disability rights, examine baseline findings on council compliance, and engage in group analyses to develop a practical, results-oriented roadmap for disability inclusion at both regional and council levels.

Stakeholders from ministries such as Public Health, Basic and Secondary Education, Employment and Vocational Training, and Social Affairs presented current government actions aimed at improving accessibility, inclusive budgeting, and service delivery for persons with disabilities. 

The PIC equally highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Cameroon Baptist Convention’s SEEPD program, which is providing sign-language and Braille services, as well as CARITAS, which is enriching discussions with field-based insights.

Workshop outcome

At the end of the workshop, participants were expected to produce three major outcomes: an enriched baseline report, a comprehensive workshop report with recommendations, and a disability-inclusion roadmap outlining short, medium, and long-term priorities for councils.

The PIC also drew attention to 2026 plans by the Ministry of Social Affairs, including the reinforcement of social protection, modernisation of rehabilitation centres, and creation of a national solidarity fund.

Tamfu also called on participants to actively contribute, challenge assumptions, and help build councils where persons with disabilities enjoy their rights fully and equally. 

The event ended with participants like Kum Nji Desmond, Secretary General of Hope Social Union for the Visually Impaired Association, expressing satisfaction, as he emphasised that they are going to work hand-in-hand with the PIC and councils to make sure that the reforms are implemented.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3649 of Monday December 08, 2025