KZN TRANSPORT DEPARTMENT ENSURING ACCESS TO INFORMATION TO THE DISABLED

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Mr S’bu Ndebele is not only ensuring proper access to the public through the provision of road infrastructure, but is also determined to meet the needs of the disabled through ensuring access to information on all transport matters.

Presenting the first copy in Pietermaritzburg yesterday of the department’s internal newsletter in Braille format to the department’s receptionist, Mr Mandla Madlala who is blind, Mr Ndebele highlighted the important role that people with disabilities have to play within the transport sector.

"The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport is very much committed to addressing the needs of people with disabilities. It is the constitutional right of every South African to have access to information. This new service supports the department’s pledge to be a caring department that offers equal opportunities to all and would enable people with disabilities to access information freely and with dignity," said Mr Ndebele.

Mr Madlala was extremely grateful to the MEC for having commissioned the department to cater for his needs. "Today I do not feel like an island in the sea of available information" said Mr Madlala.

The KZN Transport Department will convert all other important documents including budget speeches, etc. into Braille format. Ndebele has also tasked his departmental officials to assist Mr Madlala with all his educational needs.

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