Sudan is one of the poorest countries in the world, with a per capita gross national income of $460 per year (World Bank, 2003) and a life expectancy of 54 years (men) and 57 years (women) (UNDP, 2004). The majority of the population of approximately 38.6m (World Bank 2007) live below the poverty line of $1/day, a situation that has been fuelled by unequal distribution of resources and 21 years of continuous civil strife in Southern Sudan, and the exacerbated conflict in Darfur. It is assumed that 10% of the Sudanese population are disabled (WHO), although this is likely to be an under-estimate.
In 2008 the 4th population census took place in almost all states of Sudan. Disabled people's organisations successfully influenced the population census bureau to include three clear questions about disability. The findings will be helpful for further researched on disability in Sudan.
As a result of the unsteady economy the situation for disabled people in many cases has worsened. A reduction in social service expenditures has had a negative impact on the programmes and the activities aimed at promoting opportunities for disabled people. Moreover, disabled people in many ways are denied access to basic services such as education, health, water, information and communication as a result of depressing social attitudes and government policies of service provision.
In order to address the above, ADD Sudan intends to continue building on what has been achieved to date by both strengthening and empowering disabled people's organisations to fully participate and interact in the social, political and economic life, creating an inclusive society that cater for their rights. Although, the Disability Act of 2008 has been passed by the National Council, we believe there is still a lack of legislation to cater for the interests of disabled people that contributes to the prevailing marginalisation.
ADD Sudan will to continue to work with disabled people's organisations to influence change and bring about new favourable policies and legislations in favour of disabled persons.
Updated August 2009.