BARRIERS AND ENABLERS OF EMPLOYED PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN RWANDA

Securing and retaining employment remains a significant challenge for individuals with disabilities. It is crucial to recognize the barriers they encounter and the factors that contribute to their success in order to promote equal opportunities in the workforce. This research aimed to investigate the obstacles and facilitators of employment for individuals with disabilities in Rwanda. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with individuals with disabilities in Kigali, Rwanda. The interviews covered various topics, including job search experiences, workplace environments, employer attitudes, and other relevant matters. The collected data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. Two major themes (barriers for employed individuals with disabilities and enablers for employed individuals with disabilities) and eight sub-themes (environmental, attitudinal, personal barriers, transport accessibility, financial challenges, support from employers and colleagues, government support, and opportunities for growth) emerged from the analysis. The primary challenges identified by participants included inaccessible work environments, negative attitudes, financial struggles, and personal barriers such as low self-esteem. The study also highlighted factors that encourage employment, such as supportive work conditions, career growth opportunities, and government backing through laws and policies. This research emphasizes the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the workplace, along with the factors that promote employment. Employers can foster a more inclusive work environment by improving accessibility, cultivating positive attitudes, and offering proper support systems, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.