Kigali, Rwanda – The Specialized Chamber of the Private Sector Federation (PSF) in Rwanda has elected Papy Sibomana, a dedicated member of the Rwanda Union of the Blind, as its new Vice President in charge of Entrepreneurs with Disabilities. This pivotal role is set to drive significant advancements in inclusive entrepreneurship and economic participation for persons with disabilities across Rwanda.
In a recent interview, Mr. Sibomana emphasized the profound responsibility of his new position, which he sees as a powerful message that “persons with disabilities belong in leadership, business, and decision-making spaces.”Key Responsibilities and Strategic Priorities
Mr. Sibomana outlined a clear vision focused on systemic change and direct support for entrepreneurs with disabilities. His key responsibilities will include:
- Advocacy and Policy: Championing policies and programs that actively support entrepreneurs with disabilities within the private sector.
- Partnership Building: Fostering collaborations between businesses, disability organizations, and government institutions.
- Resource Access: Supporting entrepreneurs with disabilities in accessing crucial resources such as finance, markets, training, and technology.
- Inclusive Business Practices: Promoting accessible workplaces and inclusive business practices across the federation.
His priorities will center on strengthening the inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystem and promoting disability-inclusive hiring. This involves:
- Ecosystem Building: Strengthening environments where persons with disabilities can confidently start and grow businesses.
- Hiring Practices: Promoting inclusive hiring across companies and institutions.
- Innovation and Technology: Encouraging the adoption of assistive technology and innovation to help entrepreneurs compete effectively.
- Mentorship: Mobilizing and mentoring young entrepreneurs with disabilities to become future leaders and job creators.
Engaging the Private Sector for Inclusive Employment
To solidify disability-inclusive employment, Mr. Sibomana plans to work closely with private sector actors by:
- Raising Awareness: Promoting the business case for disability inclusion to corporate leaders.
- Supporting Adoption: Helping companies adopt inclusive recruitment and accessible workplace practices.
- Facilitating Connections: Creating linkages between employers and qualified professionals with disabilities.
- Highlighting Success: Showcasing successful businesses that benefit from diverse and inclusive teams.
Specific Focus for Visually Impaired Persons
As a member of the Rwanda Union of the Blind, Mr. Sibomana detailed specific benefits his role will bring to visually impaired professionals and entrepreneurs, including:
- Accessible Technology: Promoting accessible digital tools and assistive technologies within workplaces.
- Digital Skills: Supporting training in digital skills, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies.
- System Accessibility: Encouraging businesses to adopt accessible systems and inclusive communication tools.
- Network Strengthening: Building networks to help visually impaired entrepreneurs scale their businesses.
A Call to Action
Concluding his interview, Mr. Sibomana delivered a message of encouragement to his peers: “Our ideas, talents, and enterprises are valuable contributions to the economy. I encourage fellow persons with disabilities to pursue entrepreneurship with confidence.”
He affirmed his commitment to collaboration, stating, “I look forward to collaborating with partners, businesses, and organizations beyond disability movement and the private sector to advance inclusive economic growth in Rwanda.” His election marks a powerful and optimistic new chapter for disability inclusion in the Rwandan economy, moving toward a private sector that is accessible and equitable for all.