Barbados is taking significant strides to improve transportation accessibility for its citizens with disabilities. The government has announced plans to expand its fleet of wheelchair-accessible buses, with the first two vehicles expected to arrive by the end of 2025. This initiative, revealed by Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, Mark Franklin, during the Caribbean Disability Conference, underscores the administration’s commitment to addressing the mobility challenges faced by disabled individuals. Franklin emphasized that transportation remains a critical priority, particularly for schoolchildren and others who rely on specialized services. The National Disabilities Unit (NDU), which currently operates five vehicles—only two of which are fully wheelchair-accessible—will receive new buses equipped with durable lifts designed for daily use. Wayne Nurse, Director of the NDU, confirmed that the new vehicles will accommodate eight to 12 passengers, including wheelchair users, and will be capable of navigating smaller residential areas. The initiative is part of the government’s broader 2023–2030 National Policy for Persons with Disabilities and aligns with recent rights-based legislation aimed at fostering inclusion and accessibility. Franklin highlighted that breaking barriers requires more than policy—it demands empathy, tangible support, and a commitment to ensuring that all citizens, regardless of ability, have equal opportunities to participate in society.
