About Us

ABOUT THT

Founded in 2004 by persons with disabilities

Our story

Troupe des Personnes Handicapées TWUZUZANYE (THT) was created in 2004 by persons with disabilities who wanted to do advocacy through drama, theatre and traditional dance. THT is a non-governmental organization, first legally registered in 2009, with registration renewed in 2012 (n029/11) under the new law number 04/2012 of 17/02/2012 governing NGOs in Rwanda.

Who we are

THT members at a community event in Rwanda

THT is made up of members with all types of impairments. At the time of our last strategy we had 86 members: 49 women and 37 men.

What we believe

Persons with disabilities are not objects of charity. We are rights holders, decision-makers and active members of our communities. This is the spirit of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and of the promise to leave no one behind.

Our purpose

To carry out evidence-based advocacy and lobbying so that groups of persons with disabilities (children, women, girls, boys and men) across Rwanda can access inclusive social services, including basic education and health. We raise community awareness, support families and schools, and inform policy-makers about what works for an inclusive society.

Our approach

Our work uses grassroots organizing and mobilizing techniques to engage persons with disabilities in the advocacy process. We use a range of strategies:

  • Using social media and storytelling
  • Lobbying decision-makers
  • Educating the public through drama and theatre
  • Organizing constituency groups and self-help groups
  • Conducting research and case studies
  • Building coalitions with other groups and key stakeholders

How we work

Advocacy and lobbying

For inclusive laws, policies and budgets.

Capacity development

So persons with disabilities can advocate for themselves.

Grassroots mobilization

Through drama groups and self-help groups.

Coalition building

With national, regional and international allies.

Registration

THT is a registered NGO in Rwanda. First registered in 2009; renewed in 2012 under law number 04/2012 of 17/02/2012 (registration n029/11).

Meet our leadership

Stand with us

THT has advocated for the rights of persons with disabilities in Rwanda since 2004.

Contact us