Ohangwena Governor Kadiva Hamutumwa has called for stronger action to protect people with disabilities from violence, abuse, exploitation and discrimination.

She made the call during the official opening of a workshop for people with disabilities at Eenhana.

The workshop was organised by the Namibia Association of People with Physical Disabilities to sensitise people with disabilities to gender-based violence.

Hamutumwa stressed that disability inclusion must become part of mainstream development, saying they too have the same rights, dignity and aspirations as every other citizen.

"As the leadership of the Ohangwena Region, we must therefore ensure that persons with disabilities are not invited only when we are discussing disability. They must be included in our mainstream development programmes, consultations, community activities and decision-making processes."

Hamutumwa also raised concern about the vulnerability of people with disabilities to gender-based violence, saying dependence on caregivers, communication barriers, stigma, poverty and limited access to information can increase their vulnerability.

Speaking on behalf of persons with disabilities, Lisias Mathews said they continue to face numerous challenges, including access to land, both communal and in urban areas.

The workshop was held under the theme Breaking the Silence, Promoting Safety, Inclusion, and Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities in the Ohangwena Region.