As part of its commitment to fostering inclusive growth and development, USAID Gikuriro Kuri Bose proudly collaborated with local government authorities to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities and the support this year has been pivotal in making the day a success. This year’s celebration shone a spotlight on empowering individuals with disabilities and creating sustainable opportunities for their families. The event served as a platform to raise awareness of the rights and contributions of persons with disabilities while also addressing the barriers they face in society.
Collaborating for Change: USAID Gikuriro Kuri Bose Leads CBID Approach for Disability Integration
By incorporating inclusive principles into nutrition and ECD programs, USAID Gikuriro Kuri Bose has enabled better access to health, education, and nutritional support for children and adults with disabilities. The training sessions and resources provided to 1,533 CBID Volunteers in Burera, Rulindo and Nyabihu as well as to local governments, community leaders, and stakeholders have strengthened their capacity to implement inclusive strategies effectively. This has bridged gaps in service delivery and promoted equity at the community level. Communities are progressively taking ownership of inclusive programs, reinforcing long-term impacts on growth and development.
Promoting Health Equity: USAID Gikuriro Kuri Bose Ensures Vulnerable persons with Disability Receive Specialized Medical Care
USAID Gikuriro Kuri Bose collaborates with health facilities and medical professionals to facilitate access to specialized medical care for individuals with disabilities. The facilitation includes financial assistance, facilitating transport to medical facilities, and connecting families with specialize health facilities.
These efforts have allowed 180 person with disability including children and adults to receive essential therapies, assistive devices, and interventions that enhance their well-being and integration into the community in Burera, Rulindo and Nyabihu where Caritas Rwanda implements USAID Gikuriro Kuri Bose.
Mukakabera Beltrilde, the mother of a child born with clubfoot in Rulindo District and supported to undergo corrective surgeries and fitted with custom-made orthopedic shoes attested: “Before the support, accessing specialized care for my child felt impossible. Now, my child is not only receiving treatment but also thriving in school and life.”
By working collaboratively with healthcare providers, communities, and stakeholders, USAID Gikuriro Kuri Bose aims to break down the barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from living fulfilling, independent lives.
Building Financial Resilience for Persons with Disabilities: Direct Cash Support and Savings Groups in Action
Through direct cash support that reached 1326 selected vulnerable families with persons with disabilities in Rulindo, Burera and Nyabihu and the establishment of savings groups, USAID Gikuriro Kuri Bose is making significant strides in advancing the economic empowerment of persons with disabilities. The direct cash support enables beneficiaries to invest in small income generating activities that will contribute to their long-term financial independence. By removing some of the barriers related to poverty, the initiative offers recipients a sense of dignity and self-worth, enabling them to engage more fully in their communities and participate in economic activities.
A Call to Action
While reflecting on this year’s celebration theme “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future”, USAID Gikuriro Kuri Bose reaffirms its commitment to building inclusive and empowered communities, calling on stakeholders to join hands in ensuring that persons with disabilities, particularly children, are provided with equal opportunities to thrive. Together, we can create a world that truly leaves no one behind. Let us celebrate diversity and take actionable steps toward inclusivity every day of the year!