The speaker of the National Assembly, Professor Peter Katjavivi says people with disabilities in Namibia are faced with numerous challenges. He is now calling on the public to become involved in issues affecting those with disabilities in an effort to promote inclusiveness.

Katjavivi was speaking at the closing of the two-day National Disabilities Conference in Windhoek on Friday.

"Our people are faced with a lack of access to rights and legal representatives. Citizens in rural communities travel long distances to access basic needs and that hinders progress in uplifting the lives of our people, particularly people with disabilities."

Katjavivi says it's now time for Namibians from all walks of life to become involved in matters negatively affecting the community.

"Addressing issues of inclusion, the question of gender-based violence, mental health, and service delivery among others, it requires us to become more participative in our society. It is very important not to miss the opportunity to partake in discussions and debates where you will be properly informed."

The conference hosted by Konrad-Adenauer Stiftung was held under the theme "Awareness, Inclusivity, Public Participation and Shaping Namibia's Disability Regulatory Framework."