Foreword
This publication is the result of discussions held at a workshop
in Entebbe, Uganda in August 1994. The meeting brought together persons with
disabilities from fifteen African countries that had either been funded by the
African Development Foundation or were sponsored by the International Labour
Office. Participants represented both the grassroots community groups and
intermediary non-governmental organizations involved in a variety of development
projects.
These included among others, people involved in horticulture,
tailoring, furniture making, book binding, leadership and vocational training.
Other organizations focusing on the re-integration of former psychiatric
patients into the community through appropriate agricultural training were also
in attendance. The focus of the week long meeting was on issues and strategies
for sustainable development that these groups of persons with disabilities are
experiencing as they try to enter the mainstream economy through self-help,
income generation activities. The intent of the meeting was also to promote and
encourage the transitional process of persons with disabilities moving from a
charity to an empowerment mode, being visible and vocal actors in the
development of their communities and country.
With participants coming from various corners of Africa, many
leaving home for the first time, communication as well as accessibility issues
for those in wheelchairs or with crutches were the main challenges to be
overcome. Aside from simultaneous translation into French, English, Congolese
and Zambian sign language throughout the week, participants were encouraged to
use their first language if they felt more comfortable doing so. Braillers were
also available. Some 25 different African languages were represented amongst the
participants. You Will see as you read this publication, that these potential
logistical obstacles did not dampen the energy and enthusiasm of the
participants.
The intent of this publication goes far beyond the usual set of
proceedings from a workshop/conference. It is intended not only to capture the
essence of the deliberations that took place amongst persons with disabilities
themselves, but also to serve as a guide to a variety of audiences within the
development community. It is hoped that it will influence decision-making and
policy-setting for those who are currently involved in the disability field or,
for those who have not yet taken that first step, to consider and include
persons with disabilities in their development planning.
Christine S. Fowles
Director of Programs and Field
Operations
East, Central and Southern Africa
African Development
Foundation
