KAMONYI- Officials from the National Council for Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs), have called on districts to put in place services favourable for people with disabilities. Gaston Rusiha, the council’s chairman, said:: Districts should hire officials in charge of disabled persons as provided for by the law, and put up facilities favouring such people with special needs”. Rusiha made the remarks during New Year celebrations for people living with disabilities (PLWDs) in Kamonyi District Southern Province. The event was marked with dialogue on needs and way forward how local authorities can facilitate people with special needs. Oswald Tuyizere, a representative of disabled persons in Kamonyi, said there was need to increase district budgets to support the implementation of their projects. The vice mayor in charge of social affairs, Alice Uwera, stated that some steps had been taken in addressing the needs of PLWDs, including putting in place facilities on new classrooms built for the 12YBE schools. “There is more to be done in this aspect. The district set aside Rwf11million last year but this budget will be increased this year to meet more of their needs,” she said. The Kamonyi community of disabled people hailed the government for its advocacy and putting in place a legal framework to support them. Jean Iradukunda a student, said; “With such policies, the value of disabled people has been restored in the community, unlike in the past where we were seen as a problem, and in most cases faced stigma in families and community.” danielsabiiti@newtimes.co.rw
