Title: Entrepreneurship as a person with a disability: opportunities and challenges to be met
Introduction :
Entrepreneurship is a path increasingly taken by many individuals around the world. However, some people, especially those with disabilities, may face additional barriers when they want to engage in formal entrepreneurship. As part of the Project for the Reform and Dissemination of laws favorable to women’s entrepreneurship in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Permanent Consultation Framework for Congolese Women (CAFCO) in partnership with UN Women recently organized a specific awareness campaign for people with disabilities on the modalities and opportunities of formal entrepreneurship. This article highlights the key points of this initiative and underlines the importance of supporting and encouraging the entrepreneurship of people with disabilities.
Obstacles encountered by people with disabilities:
People with disabilities often face additional barriers when seeking to engage in entrepreneurship. These barriers can arise from a variety of sources, including physical barriers, prejudices and stereotypes, lack of financial support, and limited access to resources and opportunities. These factors can discourage people with disabilities from exploring formal entrepreneurship and harnessing its potential to develop their skills and contribute to the economy.
Raising awareness and encouraging formal entrepreneurship:
Making people with disabilities aware of the possibilities of formal entrepreneurship is essential to encourage them to consider this path. The initiative of CAFCO and UN Women specifically aims to inform people with disabilities about the laws favorable to their entrepreneurship, as well as about the administrative procedures necessary to formalize their activities. By showing them the benefits and resources available, the aim is to encourage them to take the plunge and engage in formal entrepreneurship.
The recommendations made by the participants:
The participants in this awareness campaign also made important recommendations to support the entrepreneurship of people with disabilities. They stressed the need for the government to put in place specific support mechanisms for entrepreneurs with disabilities, in order to overcome the financial and administrative obstacles they face. Moreover, they insisted on the need to build the capacities of people with disabilities who are already embarking on formal entrepreneurship, by providing them with appropriate training and support..
Measures taken to facilitate entrepreneurship for people with disabilities:
To facilitate entrepreneurship for people with disabilities, the CAFCO has announced a concrete measure: the reduction of the cost of the commercial register and personal property credit (RCCM) for people with disabilities exercising a commercial activity. This reduced rate will allow entrepreneurs with disabilities to obtain the RCCM at a more affordable price, thus promoting their access to the formalization of their activities.
Conclusion :
It is essential to raise awareness and encourage entrepreneurship among people with disabilities. By removing barriers and providing the right support, we can help these entrepreneurs develop their skills, contribute to the economy and enjoy greater independence. The partnership between CAFCO and UN Women in the Democratic Republic of Congo is a commendable example of this awareness and commitment to the inclusion and empowerment of people with disabilities in the world of entrepreneurship