DUKORE TWIGIRE Project boosts confidence and livelihoods for persons with disabilities

By Carine Kayitesi.

Persons with disabilities across Rwanda have hailed the DUKORE TWIGIRE project for empowering them with confidence, skills, and economic independence. The four-year initiative, implemented by the National Union of Disability Organizations in Rwanda (NUDOR) and funded by Christian Blind Mission (CBM), officially concluded on Monday, leaving what beneficiaries describe as life-changing impact.

Before joining the project, many participants lived in isolation, lacked self-confidence, and struggled to sustain themselves financially. Through savings and lending groups, vocational training, mentorship, and guidance, the program helped them build economic resilience and regain their sense of self-worth.

Empowerment that restored dignity

Antoinette Uwamahirwe from Rwamagana District said the project transformed her outlook on life and enabled her to support her family.

“I used to be isolated and mocked, but today I am a valued member of my community,” she said. “Thanks to the skills and savings group NUDOR helped us create, I can now pay school fees, buy health insurance on time, and take care of my children. I am no longer defined by disability.”

For Japheth Bizumuremyi from Huye District, the training brought personal empowerment and new ambition.

“This project helped me believe in myself. The savings groups and trainings changed my life, and I now want to use my skills to support others. I am proud and happy as a person with albinism,” he testified.

Changing mindsets beyond households

Theoneste Rangira, one of the community facilitators under the project, noted that DUKORE TWIGIRE did more than improve household income; it helped shift community perceptions.

“The greatest achievement is the change in mindset. Communities now recognize that persons with disabilities are capable and valuable. They have a voice and are no longer hidden,” he said.

Brigitte Murekatete from NUDOR’s social empowerment program echoed this sentiment. She said that, initially, many persons with disabilities lacked confidence to participate in public activities or government programs.

“Today, they attend meetings, join community initiatives, and understand they are full citizens who can access opportunities and improve their living conditions,” she explained.

According to Murekatete, 27 trained facilitators across four districts played a crucial role by helping beneficiaries manage finances and develop income-generating projects.

A future of inclusion and self-reliance

NUDOR’s Executive Director, Dr. Mukarwego Beth Nasiforo, said the project exceeded expectations, particularly in increasing visibility and independence among persons with disabilities.

“We are proud that many participants have completed TVET training and are now running their own businesses. Others are progressing through savings groups, lending to each other, and sharing profits annually. These groups give them economic power they didn’t have before,” she said.

Dr. Mukarwego urged the established groups to remain active and continue advocating for others with disabilities who were not reached by the project to ensure wider inclusion nationwide.

Lasting transformation

The DUKORE TWIGIRE project now closes with a legacy of improved livelihoods, restored dignity, and a stronger sense of social participation for persons with disabilities in Rwanda. Beneficiaries say the biggest change is not only in their income, but in how they are seen and how they see themselves.