Thrivescape Initiative calls for increased representation of persons with disabilities in urban decision-making

Stanley Ihedigbo

Thrivescape Initiative has called for increased representation of persons with disabilities in urban decision-making as it’s joined the global community in celebrating the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD).

According to the Communication and Publicity Officer, Thrivescape Initiative, Oluwaseun Ayomide, as an organization promoting inclusive and sustainable cities and communities where everyone, regardless of gender, age, and disability, thrives.

” We celebrate the resilience of persons with disabilities even in challenging, discriminatory, and restrictive environments. This year’s theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” aligns seamlessly with one of Thrivescape’s focus areas—equal representation in urban governance for the maximum inclusion of all sectors of society.

“At Thrivescape Initiative, we believe that inclusivity is at the heart of sustainability. Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) represent an essential demographic that must not be left behind in the global pursuit of equitable development and environmental justice. We use this occasion to reiterate the need for urban governance to be inclusive of persons with disabilities, as this is the only way to integrate their diverse needs into policies, programming, and development.

“Accessible buildings and infrastructure serve as a concrete sign to PWDs that they are invited to the decision-making table. We implore built environment professionals to ensure that public spaces, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, transportation facilities, and other public buildings are designed and developed in line with universal access design. Borrowing from the Yoruba proverb “A kin fa ori lehin olori” (No shaving can be done without the presence of the head owner), we should make all our design and development phases more participatory to include the representation of PWDs and organizations of persons with disabilities,” the Communication and Publicity Officer said.

Ayomide further said that the development will help create an environment where PWDs can actively contribute to decision-making processes and participate meaningfully in shaping the future.

“On this International Day for Persons with Disabilities, Thrivescape Initiative reaffirms its commitment to inclusive development. We call on government agencies, private sector players, civil society organizations, and individuals to join us in building cities and communities that work for everyone, regardless of ability.

“Thrivescape Initiative is a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering climate-responsive cities and communities where everyone thrives. Through advocacy, innovative solutions, and community empowerment, we aim to promote urban planning, green infrastructure, and environmental resilience that prioritize inclusivity and sustainability, the organisation spoken person stated.