Research conducted in the districts of Bugesera and Nyabihu showed that people with disabilities are employed at a rate of 20.3% compared to 60.3% for those without disabilities. On the other hand, 79.6% of people with disabilities are completely outside the workforce, while 39.7% of those without disabilities are in the same situation. These figures highlight a significant gap in employment between people with disabilities and those without, despite policies designed to provide equal opportunities for all capable individuals.
UNABU Executive Director Mushimiyimana Gaudence stated that while existing policies help ensure no one is left behind, challenges remain in their implementation. He pointed out that children with disabilities still face barriers to education due to parents’ perceptions and limited knowledge within schools about how to accommodate children with disabilities. Mushimiyimana added that UNABU and partner organizations continue advocacy efforts and educate people with disabilities on how to attend school and seek employment to achieve personal development.
NCPD Executive Secretary Ndayisaba Emmanuel said progress has been made in revising labor policies to include people with disabilities, particularly in vocational training (TVET) programs. He noted that some employers have started recognizing the capacity and productivity of people with disabilities but emphasized the need to continue advocacy and monitor policy implementation to ensure equal opportunities.
The meeting concluded with a call to continue consistent advocacy, encourage youth with disabilities to enroll in TVET programs to access employment more quickly, and urge employers to provide equal opportunities as the capabilities of people with disabilities are evident when given fair chances.
