RDRC, JICA launch access campaign for the disabled

Rwanda Demobilization and Re-integration Commission (RDRC) in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on Friday launched a campaign to enable people with disabilities have a barrier-free environment. Together with other partners in the fight against the violation of the rights of people with disabilities, the two parties met to devise lasting solutions to factors limiting disabled people from participating in social and economic activities. “It is not only about the ex-combatants, but every disabled person deserves the right to enjoy his freedom and rights just like any other human being,” said Brig. Gen. Peter Bagabo, a Commissioner in RDRC. He added that people with any form of disability, should willingly be integrated in society as well as getting services they are entitled to. Speaking to Sunday Times, one of the participants Zacharie Nkundiye, said they fail to access certain services in their day-to-day life due to unfriendly infrastructure. “Some services are provided in buildings that were constructed without putting in place provisions for people with disabilities,” Nkundiye said. He explained that although the law is clear about the style of construction in regard to accessibility by people living with disabilities, the problem still exists. Responding to Nkundiye`s concern, Vedaste Hakizimana, a Community Development and Project Analyst at the Ministry of Local Government, said that according to construction guidelines, buildings, especially those meant to offer public services, must be designed with easy access for people with disabilities. Hakizimana added that, the government is committed to making sure that people living with disabilities have their rights respected. Ends