Bienvenu Bazimaziki, who has a physical disability that does not hinder him from working, is a doctor at Nyiranuma Health Center in the Biryogo sector, Nyarugenge district. Despite being a doctor, he is also a member of the Gitega sector council in Nyarugenge district, where he says that joining this level, has helped him engage in advocacy alongside his colleagues with disabilities to progress and be supported by their capable friends.

He said, "Joining the sector council has helped me engage in advocacy with my friends who have disabilities."

He advises his fellow disabled friends to strive and progress because the Government of Rwanda supports them.

The Gitega sector in Nyarugenge district says that collaborating with council members, including leaders of people with disabilities, is crucial for the development of disabled people. 

Mr. Thierry Nsengimana, the Head of Good Governance in the Gitega sector, Nyarugenge district, says they work with this council led by persons with disabilities to provide support to those with businesses.

The national coordinator of the Association of Persons with Disabilities in Rwanda, Mr. Emmanuel Ndayisaba, says that giving persons with disabilities opportunities in decision-making positions is crucial for their development and progress.

Persons with disabilities have been given roles in decision-making positions at various levels of governance, including in district and sector councils, as well as in the National Parliament and the East African Community Legislative Assembly.

Statistics from the National Association of Persons with Disabilities show that across Rwanda, there are over 400 persons with disabilities aged over 18, each with different types of disabilities.

written by Kavukire Alexis