The Ethiopian Center for Disability and Development (ECDD) Amhara Regional Coordination Office has received a Special Recognition Award from the Bahir Dar City Administration Women, Youth and Social Affairs Department, presented by the City Mayor in recognition of ECDD’s sustained contribution to disability inclusion and improving the lives of persons with disabilities in the city.
The recognition reflects the cumulative impact of ECDD’s programmes and projects implemented in Bahir Dar over time. Through interventions in disability rights, disability inclusive livelihoods, health, and education, ECDD has worked with government institutions, persons with disabilities, organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), universities, and other stakeholders to advance disability inclusion and participation.
Speaking about the recognition, ECDD Executive Director Dr. Getahun Semeon said the award reflects the collective contribution of ECDD’s work and partnerships in the city.
“This recognition is not for a single project or activity. It reflects the cumulative effect of all the work ECDD has been doing in Bahir Dar in partnership with the city administration, persons with disabilities, OPDs, and other stakeholders.”
“We see this award as both recognition of what has been achieved and encouragement to do more. Disability inclusion is a shared responsibility, and sustainable change requires government, civil society, communities, and persons with disabilities to work together.”
ECDD’s work in Bahir Dar includes ADVANCE, which strengthens disability rights advocacy and participation; AHEAD, which promotes more disability inclusive health services; TILLA, which supports economic empowerment and livelihoods; and EMPOWER, which advances disability inclusion in higher education. The I-BPO project has also supported graduates with disabilities through skills development and pathways to employment in the business process outsourcing sector.
The award underscores ECDD’s continued commitment to advancing disability rights, inclusive services, education, health, social participation, and economic empowerment, while highlighting the importance of sustained partnerships in building a more inclusive Bahir Dar and wider Amhara Region.
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