The Ethiopian Center for Disability and Development (ECDD) has provided office equipment to the Addis Ababa Organization of Persons with Disabilities (OPD) as part of its efforts to strengthen the capacity of OPDs to advocate for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
The support follows a capacity assessment conducted by ECDD to identify organizational strengths and gaps and determine areas requiring technical and material support, including organizational systems, leadership, governance, and identity.
ECDD Executive Director Dr. Getahun Semeon said:
“Our objective is not simply to provide equipment; it is to strengthen OPDs so they can lead effective advocacy and meaningfully influence decisions affecting persons with disabilities. Strong OPDs are essential for advancing disability rights and inclusion.”
Established in April 2011, the Addis Ababa Organization of Persons with Disabilities has more than 10,000 members and works to protect and promote the rights and interests of persons with disabilities through advocacy, capacity building, legal protection, policy engagement, and safeguarding.
The support is needs-based, responding to gaps identified through the assessment and combining material assistance with technical support where required. ECDD will extend similar support to OPDs in its other target areas, including Dire Dawa, Jimma, Gondar, Hosanna, and Mekelle, based on identified organizational needs.
Through this approach, ECDD aims to contribute to stronger, more capable, and sustainable OPDs that can effectively represent their members, engage decision-makers, and advance inclusive policies and services.
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