On 4th April 2013, at Nobleza Hotel held a meeting aimed at validating the report of activities performed during the celebration of International Day of Persons with Disability (IDPD) that took place on December 3, 2013.
The major objective of this meeting was to exchange on the achievements, challenges and best practices from activities performed during the celebration of IDPD 2012. It was also an opportunity to express gratitude to all persons who contributed for its success.
During the opening speech, Mr RUSIHA Gastone, the President of National Council of Persons with Disabilities reminded the theme of the IDPD-2012 celebration which was stipulated as follow “Removing barriers to create an inclusive and accessible society for allâ€. “We are delighted about the step we reached in removing barriers but there is still a lot to do. We have to continue to fight for our rights.†said the President.
During the presentation of IDPD report, the Director of Economic and Social Empowerment Mr. TUYIZERE Oswald highlighted some major activities conducted during disability week such as the accessibility audit of public buildings conducted countrywide and PWDs’ sport games competition performed in Sit ball and Goal ball, IDPD for children with disabilities and the celebration done in Bugesera District.
Discussing on the report, participants pleased the success of IDPD 2012. It has been a great approach of advocacy as well as it was attended by high dignitaries including the Prime Minister. The case of Mukama sector in Nyagatare District, where a family that has three children with disabilities was helped by sector authorities to move from inaccessible area where they used to live, is a good example of positive actions taken after the celebration of IDPD in Nyagatare District. Looking at some points to be improved, participants committed to put much effort to achieve the highest success. They will emphasize on extending the steering committee by adding other public institutions concerned by promoting the welfare of persons with disabilities.
The meeting ends with delivering certificates of recognition to the Organization that contributed to the success of IDPD 2012. Those are: UNICEF Rwanda, Plan Rwanda, VSO, Handicap International, World Vision, National Commission of Human Rights, Radio Voice of Hope, Umbrella of Persons with Disabilities fighting against HIV/AIDS, JICA, Rwanda Housing Authority. A copy of DVD of IDPD and a documentary film on accessibility audit were given to participants.
Reported by:
Nyirabugenimana Sylvie
Disability Friendly Communication Officer