Title: The launch of the Joint Project of the United Nations Partnership for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Introduction :
September 26, 2023 will remain a significant date for people living with disabilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Indeed, Prime Minister Jean-Michel Sama Lukonde officially launched the Joint Project of the United Nations Partnership for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD) in Kinshasa. This project, supported by several agencies of the United Nations system, aims to promote and protect the rights of people with disabilities in the country.
A strong government commitment:
The Head of State, Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tsholombo, demonstrated his commitment by placing the issue of inclusion of people living with disabilities at the heart of the government’s social action. By creating the delegated ministry responsible for People Living with Disabilities and Other Vulnerable People, he realized his vision of a more inclusive society. The National Policy for the Promotion and Protection of the Rights of PVH as well as the National Strategy for the Empowerment and Social Inclusion of People Living with Disabilities and Other Vulnerable People are the strategic documents which were validated during this ceremony.
A fruitful partnership with the United Nations:
The Democratic Republic of Congo benefits from close collaboration with the United Nations as part of the Joint Project of the Partnership for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This partnership will help develop strategic policies and programs aimed at strengthening the inclusion and protection of people with disabilities. The Prime Minister expressed his wish to see this partnership bear fruit and to consider an extension beyond the initial planned period.
Unfailing political will:
The Minister Delegate in charge of People Living with Disabilities and Other Vulnerable People, Irène Essambo, underlined the strong political support of the Head of State in promoting the rights of people with disabilities. The creation of an organic law dedicated to the protection and promotion of these rights demonstrates this desire. The event project launch meeting is of capital importance for the implementation of this inclusive vision and for government mobilization.
Conclusion :
The DRC takes an important step in the promotion and protection of the rights of people living with disabilities thanks to the launch of the Joint Project of the United Nations Partnership for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This government commitment, supported by a fruitful partnership with the United Nations, shows an unwavering determination to create a more inclusive society for all.. The hope is that this first experience opens the way to new actions and a lasting transformation of the lives of people with disabilities in the DRC.