The Democratic Republic of Congo's government, through the Ministry of Persons with Disabilities, recently held a meeting in Kinshasa to discuss the employability of people with disabilities and their participation in the national dialogue. The meeting aimed to address the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing employment opportunities in the public sector. Minister Delegate in charge of Persons with Disabilities, Irène Esambo Diata, led the discussions.
Minister Esambo emphasized that the meeting sought to enhance the employability of people with disabilities in the public sector and to ensure their representation through the National Employment Office (Onem). She highlighted that 60% of positions in the dedicated administration have been filled by people with disabilities, with offices established across 145 territories in the country. The minister announced plans to mechanize the agents' payroll and to introduce biometric identification cards.
The minister also addressed the issue of payment of a prime covering the last six months for agents with disabilities, announcing an increase. She urged people with disabilities to remain vigilant and not to be swayed by politicians. Minister Esambo emphasized that the only politician they support is the President of the Republic, who has given them value. The minister's remarks aimed to reassure people with disabilities of the government's commitment to their employability.
Minister Esambo announced that 10% of positions at Onem will be reserved for people with disabilities. She assured job seekers with disabilities that they will be integrated into the public sector and that their representation will be ensured. Onem has been tasked with identifying people with disabilities seeking employment to create a database that will facilitate their placement in jobs matching their skills.
The government's initiative aims to strengthen the economic autonomy of people with disabilities and expand their access to the job market. Minister Esambo encouraged people with disabilities to be alert and not to be distracted, emphasizing that the Head of State is offering them employment opportunities outside the public sector. The government's efforts seek to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities for people with disabilities.
The meeting in Kinshasa reflects the government's commitment to addressing the challenges faced by people with disabilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. By engaging with people with disabilities and their representatives, the government aims to create a more inclusive and equitable society. The initiatives announced by Minister Esambo are expected to have a positive impact on the lives of people with disabilities.
The Congolese government's efforts to promote the employability of people with disabilities are part of a broader strategy to enhance their socio-economic status. The initiatives build on existing programs aimed at promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities for all citizens. As the government continues to implement these initiatives, people with disabilities in the Democratic Republic of Congo are likely to benefit from increased access to employment opportunities.
Key points
- The Congolese government has committed to reserving 10% of positions at the National Employment Office for people with disabilities.
- Minister Esambo announced plans to mechanize the agents' payroll and introduce biometric identification cards for people with disabilities in the public sector.
- The government aims to strengthen the economic autonomy of people with disabilities and expand their access to the job market.
