Some residents living with disabilities in Cyeza Sector, Muhanga District, say they continue to face barriers including discrimination especially when seeking public and private services. authorities, however, emphasize that efforts to improve their welfare are ongoing.
Clarisse Mwizerwa, who is visually impaired, acknowledges the progress made nationwide but says negative attitudes and limited awareness among citizens and service providers remain a challenge.
“The fact that the country has recognized us and given us our rights in the law is a great step forward,” she said. “But we still face challenges when accessing both government and private services. Sometimes you arrive somewhere and feel neglected or treated as if you are incapable. What we ask is for everyone to understand that disability should never be a reason to ignore or exclude someone.”
Jean Paul Ndayambaje, who has a physical disability, points out that inaccessible infrastructure continues to hinder equal participation.
“Many buildings are not accessible to people with disabilities. Stairs, lack of ramps, and the absence of adapted bathrooms are major problems,” he said. “We ask that these challenges be taken into account in all government and private infrastructure projects.”
Local and national leaders say programs targeting people with disabilities have expanded over the years, but they admit that more needs to be done.
An official from the Ministry of Local Government (MINALOC), responsible for social welfare programs, said the government continues to prioritize inclusion.
“Disability is not a barrier to development. The government has put in place laws and guidelines that protect people with disabilities, and every year they are included in national development plans,” the official said. “We continue to urge local leaders and the private sector to strengthen their efforts in welcoming and supporting people with disabilities with dignity and respect.”
A representative from the National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) added that positive change starts within families, schools, and communities.
“Whether you have a disability or not, we all share the responsibility of building a country that respects everyone’s rights,” the representative said. “We are working with families, schools, and service providers so that everyone understands that human dignity is more important than a person’s physical condition.”
Despite notable achievements including increased access to education, community-based health insurance, empowerment programs for disability-focused organizations, and nationwide awareness campaigns — people with disabilities say they want their voices to be more strongly reflected in policies that affect their lives.
Author: Marie Chantal Ingabire