People living with disability have raised concern over gaps in the country’s legislation, which have left them vulnerable to discrimination and stigma.

They are now calling for a comprehensive review of the existing laws to tackle stigma and discrimination, inclusion in education and an increase in economic empowerment for people living with disability.

These issues were raised at the Rwanda Disability Summit hosted by the Ministry of Local Government and Department for International Development ahead of the Global Disability Summit scheduled to take place on July 24 in London.

According to Vianney Nzabamwita, a member of the organisation of People Living with Disability in Karongi district, awareness about the rights of people living with disability is still very low leading to stigma and discrimination.

Mocked

“We find it difficult to demonstrate our skills when we are looking for jobs, while our children get mocked. We are unable to seek legal solutions to such discrimination,” said Mr Nzabamwita.

These sentiments were echoed by members of parliament representing people living with a disability, who argued that a number of laws, decrees and or instructions will need to be reassessed to accommodate their needs and rights.

“The laws are there, but the implementation has been slow. But I do agree with some of my colleagues, laws on inheritance, matrimonial regimes, family donations and successions and those of persons and family are not inclusive.

“I have seen institutions coming to parliament with budget statements, which are only accepted if they are gender inclusive, and I think it is time we ask for these budgets to be more inclusive of persons with disabilities,” said MP Gaston Rusiha.

He added that there is a need for economic projects that target people with disabilities to empower them.

Jo Lomas, the British High commissioner to Rwanda said legislation and policy in the country may not be perfect, but it is in much better shape compared with other countries. She commended government initiatives such as advocacy for women with disabilities who often face additional challenges and require more attention.

According to Emmanuel Ndayisaba, the executive secretary of the National council for people with disabilities, though the rate of discrimination has reduced significantly, more is needed to empower people living with disabilities.

“There is a need to focus on their ability. They might still face discrimination and stigma, but the rate has reduced. We are developing a Rwanda sign language dictionary to remove communication barriers,”he said.