Cafe Juridique: Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) for persons with disabilities
On May 17th, 2024, Certa Foundation organized the 34thbi-monthly Cafe Juridique, hosted by the Center for Justice and Advocacy, focusing on bridging the gap in "Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)" for persons with disabilities. The event featured Louise Manirakiza, a healthcare professional and communication officer at NUDOR Rwanda, as a distinguished panelist.
This Cafe Juridique aimed to raise awareness about the challenges faced by women with disabilities regarding SRHR, identify and address policy gaps and accountability issues in policy implementation, and explore effective strategies to address these challenges. It also highlighted the importance of fostering an inclusive environment. Additionally, the sessions ought to foster collaboration among organizations like Certa Foundation, NUDOR Rwanda, and other stakeholders to strengthen efforts in advancing SRHR for persons with disabilities.
Ms. Loiuse emphasized the principle that “disability is not inability”, she added that before offering help, it is crucial to seek consent to ensure that the assistance provided is genuinely needed and respectful of individual autonomy.
NUDOR Rwanda, a national umbrella organization for people with disabilities, has been actively working to address the challenges faced by women with disabilities in the country. Their initiatives, guided by human rights principles, aim to ensure that services are available, affordable, and accessible to this vulnerable group.
A key program by NUDOR is the "Make Way" initiative, which focuses on empowering women with disabilities. Through this program, NUDOR provides a safe space where women with disabilities can meet monthly to discuss issues related to sexual and reproductive health.
In conclusion, the discussion noted that despite Rwanda's efforts to promote gender equality and the rights of people with disabilities, NUDOR acknowledges existing gaps and accountability issues in policy implementation. To address these challenges, NUDOR actively participates in the development of new laws related to persons with disabilities.