Sana'a - Saba:
Minister of Social Affairs and Labor Samir Baja'alah officially inaugurated the 10th Blind Week on Tuesday, an event organized by the association with support from the Disabled Care Fund.
During the opening ceremony, attended by Abdulaziz Balhaj, head of the Blind Association, Minister Baja'alah emphasized the government's commitment to addressing the needs of disabled individuals, who make up approximately 15 percent of Yemen's population.
He highlighted the directives from the leadership of the revolution to ensure comprehensive support for this community.
Baja'alah acknowledged the challenges faced by the Blind Care Association and reiterated the Ministry’s dedication to overcoming obstacles hindering their activities.
He praised the organization of Blind Week and International White Cane Day, noting that these events take place amid ongoing struggles stemming from the aggression against Yemen. He called on international humanitarian organizations to enhance their support for individuals with disabilities.
In his remarks, Balhaj outlined the association's services, programs, and ongoing challenges in front of key figures including Nasser al-Kahili, Director of the Social Affairs Office in the Capital Sana'a, and Hamid Maudhah, Director of Associations in the Ministry.
He expressed gratitude for the leadership's backing of the Disabled Care and Rehabilitation Fund, which has facilitated the establishment of Blind Week.
This year's events will feature workshops, a cultural evening, chess championships, swimming activities, and various recreational programs.
Balhaj explained that Blind Week aims to raise awareness about the blind community and promote their full integration and care within society. The opening ceremony included performances, a poem by Bashar Al-Nahari, the launch of chess competitions, and the distribution of white canes to attendees.
Additionally, a protest was held on the sidelines of the event, condemning the Zionist-American aggression in Palestine and Lebanon.
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