Kinshasa, October 29th, 2025 (CPA). – Spain has expressed its willingness to support the efforts of the Government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the disability sector, during a meeting on Wednesday between the Minister Delegate in charge of Persons with Disabilities (PVH-APV) and the Spanish Ambassador to DRC.
« I have received the Spanish Ambassador, Carmen Diez Orejas, who, on behalf of her country, represents its strong support for our disability sector, a sector that was previously neglected but which, thanks to the accession of President Felix Tshisekedi, is now moving in the right direction. She is willing to support the efforts of our country’s government in the disability sector, » has declared Ms ESAMBO Diata, Deputy Minister in charge of Persons with Disabilities and other Vulnerable Persons (PVH-APV). She has explained that the discussions have focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between DRC and Spain in the area of disability.
During the meeting, Ms Irene Esambo has presented to her guest the government’s achievements in this sector, in line with the innovative vision of the President of the Republic, Felix Tshisekedi. In particular, she has referred to the national disability policy, which is structured around six priority areas, and the national strategy for the empowerment of persons with disabilities and other vulnerable persons (PVH-APV). In addition, the Deputy Minister has emphasised the importance of entrepreneurship among persons with disabilities, particularly young people, stressing that this is a priority for the Government. To this end, she has pleaded that Spain, with its wealth of experience in social inclusion, support DRC in several areas, including entrepreneurship and vocational training, pastry making, and cooperation in the dermatological care of people with albinism, particularly for the prevention and treatment of skin cancer, an area in which Spain has recognised expertise.
Ms Esambo has also invited Ambassador Carmen Díez Orejas to participate in the Round Table of Partners in the Disability Sector, where the Government will present the reforms undertaken and seek the support of technical and financial partners. For her part, the Spanish Ambassador has praised the achievements of the Deputy Minister in charge of Persons with Disabilities, while commending her leadership and constant commitment since the accession of President Felix Tshisekedi to the highest magistracy. ‘Spain is ready to support you, because there is strong leadership in your sector,’ has said Ambassador Carmen Díez Orejas. It should be noted that there are still several challenges to be addressed in the disability sector in DRC. However, the government has taken steps to support inclusion, including the creation of a dedicated ministry in 2019 and the adoption of decrees to facilitate accessibility and employment for PWDs. Several national and international organisations are also working to improve access to care and rehabilitation. It is with a view to improving the living conditions of PWD that a round table is planned in this sector, with the aim of validating the five-year strategic plan for the protection and promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities.
It will also implement the national policy for inclusive development and a national mechanism for monitoring the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This is the culmination of the national conference on disability and an opportunity to find concrete solutions to specific problems, such as those encountered by deaf people. CPA/