Today, the Australian High Commission staff handed over the keys for a new Toyota Hilux to the Disabled Peoples Association of Solomon Islands (DPASI).
The vehicle will provide much needed transport for staff after several years without a working vehicle, which will enable them to implement their ongoing advocacy, outreach and educational programs, supporting the many thousands of Solomon Islanders living with disabilities.
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, said Australia is a strong and consistent advocate for disability rights and inclusion in Solomon Islands.
“Australia is proud to support DPASI by providing a new Toyota Hilux to help the hard work of implementing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,” Mr Hilton said.
Vice President of DPASI Board, Anika Kingmele, said the vehicle would help them work towards the realisation of their vision for people with disabilities in Solomon Islands.
“On behalf of DPASI, I profusely thank the people and Government of Australia,” Ms Kingmele said.
Following the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the Solomon Islands in 2023, this vehicle will support DPASI’s efforts to implement this important commitment to improving the lives of peoples with disabilities across the Solomon Islands.
The grant for the new vehicle was funded under the Australian High Commission’s Civil Society Organisations Strengthening Program and includes maintenance costs.