The Office of the Premier, through the Office on the Status of Disabled Persons under the Special Programmes Directorate, hosted the Mpumalanga Disability Sector Forum meeting, followed by the Mpumalanga Disability Machinery meeting from 9 –10 November 2026. The sessions were held at Ndalo Guest House in Oshoek, under the Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality.
The meetings aimed to share information on departmental plans for the 2026/27 financial year, maintain and strengthen stakeholder relations in mainstreaming disability issues, and follow up with departments on matters previously raised between the disability sector and the Honourable Premier.
The engagements brought together various stakeholders who participated in discussions and presentations focused on improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities and promoting their inclusion in society.
Key issues discussed included improving employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, enhancing access to procurement opportunities, strengthening inclusive education for children with disabilities, and ensuring equitable access to services designed to meet the needs of persons with disabilities.
The sessions also provided an opportunity to deliberate on preparations for the 2026 International Day of Persons with Disabilities celebrations.
The engagements reaffirmed the importance of collaboration among government departments and disability sector stakeholders in advancing the rights, inclusion, empowerment and socio-economic participation of persons with disabilities.