Rwanda national partner event to galvanise support on the Disability Information System for Inclusive Development
About
Persons with disabilities continue to face significant inequalities and exclusion from society, which is exacerbated by the lack of comprehensive data. This dearth of information poses challenges for the Rwandan National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) and its stakeholders in effectively advocating for change, implementing targeted interventions, and measuring progress.
The NCPD serves as a platform for advocacy and social mobilization, representing the voices of persons with disabilities. The organisation for persons with disabilities (OPD) also collaborates with the Government of Rwanda to develop and implement programs and policies that benefit this marginalized group, while also strengthening the disability network in the country.
Recognizing the need to address the lack of disability data, the NCPD has taken the initiative to develop a Disability Management Information System (DMIS). This system aims to provide evidence-based support for inclusive policies, enhance accountability, improve service delivery, and foster better coordination among key stakeholders.
Disability Management Information System (DMIS)
Ultimately, the goal is to enhance management of disability information in the country for the following purposes:
- Equitable access to appropriate and affordable assistive technology, inclusive health services and social services
- Evidence based advocacy for increased access to affordable AT
- Real time needs assessment for people with disabilities in AT, social protection and other social services
The DMIS is an innovative digital tool designed to identify and register all persons with disabilities, offering a case-management support feature. By providing up-to-date and reliable information, the DMIS empowers policymakers and decision-makers with the necessary data to make evidence based decisions on the priority interventions for people living with disabilities.
Emmanuel Ndayisaba, the Executive Secretary of the NCPD, highlights the current data deficiency, stating, "We do not have comprehensive information about disabilities in Rwanda; we only rely on data collected ten years ago." This emphasizes the urgent need for a robust and comprehensive data collection system such as the DMIS.