NCPD Calls for Increased Representation of People with Disabilities in Parliament

The Executive Secretary of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) in Rwanda, Emmanuel Ndayisaba, has expressed the council’s desire to see the number of representatives for people with disabilities in the Parliament increase.

This appeal was made during discussions held over the weekend that brought together various stakeholders to deliberate on the role of people with disabilities in national governance.

Ndayisaba acknowledged that Rwanda has made significant strides in ensuring the inclusion of persons with disabilities in decision-making platforms.

“In terms of governance, the country has done its best to include people with disabilities in decision-making structures, especially at the local level,” he said. “When they are part of these structures, they can voice their concerns and contribute to solutions, which is crucial for ensuring their perspectives are heard.”

While appreciating the current representation of people with disabilities in the Parliament, Ndayisaba emphasized the need to increase their numbers beyond the current two representatives to better address the challenges they face.

“Our aspiration is to see people with disabilities represented in key national bodies such as the Senate,” he stated. “Having a representative with disabilities in the Senate would ensure that no law is passed without considering their input. However, I commend the MPs we currently have for their deep understanding of issues affecting people with disabilities.”

Ndayisaba also highlighted examples from neighboring countries like Uganda, where each category of disability is represented by a dedicated Member of Parliament.

“Ideally, we would like to see more individuals advocating for disabilities to ensure their voices are better heard. Even if we maintain the two representatives elected directly, additional representatives could emerge through political parties, women’s groups, or youth structures, thereby increasing their influence,” he added. “It’s a matter of ongoing discussions with stakeholders, and it is achievable.”

Minister Highlights Rwanda’s Unique Approach to Inclusion

The Minister of Local Government, Dr. Patrice Mugenzi, praised Rwanda’s unique commitment to ensuring that people with disabilities actively participate in governance.

“This is a remarkable distinction for our country, as people with disabilities are included in all decision-making structures. It demonstrates that the Rwandan government has enacted laws and policies that guarantee their rights and ensure their participation in all activities and programs,” he remarked.

Annual Observance and Disability Statistics

Every year, on December 3, Rwanda joins the international community in celebrating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This year, the national celebrations will take place in Nyaruguru District, located in Rwanda’s Southern Province.

According to the 2022 National Census, Rwanda has 391,775 people with disabilities, representing 3.4% of the country’s 13.24 million population. Among them, 216,826 are women, and 174,949 are men.

However, these figures only account for individuals with disabilities aged five and above, leaving gaps in comprehensive data that could inform targeted programs and initiatives for all people with disabilities.