Although there is a robust legal framework promoting equal rights and inclusion, people with disabilities (PWDs) in Rwanda continue to face significant hurdles in securing employment.

A 2022-23 analysis by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) highlights the ongoing challenges faced by PWDs, particularly in accessing health, education, and employment opportunities.

The report reveals that unemployment rates are highest among female youth with disabilities, at 22% for those aged 16-24 and 21% for those aged 25-34. In contrast, male youth in the same age groups face lower unemployment rates of 17% and 12%, respectively.

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Strengthening disability inclusion is critical for reducing inequality and fostering national development in Rwanda, according to the Ministry of Local Government.

The Rwandan Constitution promotes the rights of all citizens, including PWDs, with specific articles focused on protection from discrimination, and the right to education, healthcare, and employment. Article 51, in particular, addresses the welfare of PWDs, emphasising their entitlement to support and inclusion in society.

Donatille Kanimba, Executive Director of the Rwanda National Union of the Blind (RNUB), says that while some PWDs find employment in both the public and private sectors, many institutions are still reluctant to hire them.

She cited the employment of 47 visually impaired teachers in public and religious institutions and journalists working at Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA) as positive examples. However, she stresses that these numbers are still too low, and many PWDs lose their jobs due to persistent misconceptions.

"Employers are often hesitant to hire PWDs, fearing the cost of accommodating their needs, such as creating accessible workspaces," Kanimba explained. "Some workplaces are simply not built for PWDs, with narrow doors, steep escalators, or inadequate restrooms."

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She also pointed to the Ministry of Public Service and Labour’s (MIFOTRA) online recruitment system, which poses particular challenges for PWDs, especially those who are visually impaired.

"People with mental disabilities face even more significant barriers, as employers often assume they won’t be able to perform the job, without even giving them a chance," Kanimba said. "Stereotypes and misconceptions still prevent many PWDs from securing employment."

Carine Uwimana, who has been using a wheelchair for several years, shared her struggles in finding a job. "It’s been a real challenge because many places I’ve applied to aren’t accessible. Employers often tell me their buildings can’t accommodate me, with narrow doorways, steep stairs, or inaccessible restrooms. It’s frustrating because I know I can do the job, but I’m held back by the lack of basic accessibility."

Uwimana emphasised the need for greater awareness and infrastructure changes, calling for real commitments from employers to make workplaces accessible.

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Similarly, Dieudonne Iraduha, who is blind, described how many employers assume he won’t be able to keep up with the workload or will require constant assistance.

"Employers think we are slow or incapable of delivering the same results as someone without a disability, but with the right tools, we can be just as efficient," he said.

Jean Damascene Nsengiyumva, Executive Secretary of the National Union of Disability Organisations in Rwanda (NUDOR), referred to a USAID Rwanda report titled "Effective Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Workplace Study Report 2021."

The report emphasises that an inclusive workplace boosts the self-confidence and sense of belonging among youth with disabilities.

Increasing awareness of disability and inclusion among employees is essential, according to the report. Employers should establish policies to prohibit verbal harassment and violence against disabled workers.

Another critical strategy is to hire based on skills, not disability status, and ensure job advertisements are accessible to all, such as offering them in Braille.

While efforts have been made by the government to employ PWDs, Kanimba urged the private sector to step up its inclusion initiatives and called for improvements to MIFOTRA’s system to make it more accessible.