KIGALI, Dec. 4– Rwanda on Tuesday joined the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities with a commitment to ensuring their inclusion in different aspects of life. The national celebrations took place in Nyaruguru District in southern Rwanda under the theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” The celebrations featured performances and dances by children living with disabilities and an exhibition of their handicraft items, underscoring the fact that disability is not inability. Emmanuel Ndayisaba, executive secretary of the National Council of Persons with Disabilities, said that while some achievements have been made in ensuring access to education for persons with disabilities in the country, barriers remain for specific categories of people with disabilities. He cited people with hearing and vision impairment and children with autism who he said have limited access to specialized services.
Minister of State for Local Government Solange Kayisire affirmed the government’s commitment to uplifting the living conditions of people living with disabilities and ensuring their inclusion in education and other aspects of life. Olugbemiga Adelakin, an official of the United Nations Population Fund in Rwanda, stressed the critical importance of ensuring people living with disabilities actively participate in decision-making processes that directly impact their lives. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is aimed at promoting the rights and well-being of people with disabilities at every level of society and development through awareness of their situation in different spheres, including political, social, economic, and cultural aspects.
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