1.When did disability formally defined for the first time in Ethiopia? Discuss it briefly?
Disability was formally defined for the first time in Ethiopia in 2009 with the enactment of the Ethiopian Persons with Disabilities Proclamation. This proclamation provided a legal framework for the protection and promotion of the rights of persons with disabilities in Ethiopia.
The proclamation defines disability as "a restriction or lack of ability to perform an activity in a manner that is considered normal resulting from the impairment of a person’s physical, mental, or sensory function or the interaction of these functions." It recognizes that disability can be temporary or permanent and can range from mild to severe.
The proclamation also states that persons with disabilities have the right to be treated equally and not to be discriminated against in any aspect of life, including education, employment, healthcare, and accessibility. It emphasizes the need for inclusive policies and programs that enable persons with disabilities to fully participate in society and enjoy their rights and freedoms.
Since the formal definition of disability in Ethiopia, efforts have been made to improve the lives of persons with disabilities through various initiatives. These include the establishment of the Ethiopian National Disability Action Network and the implementation of inclusive education programs and vocational training opportunities.
Despite these efforts, challenges still exist in fully achieving the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Ethiopia. The lack of awareness, limited resources, and societal stigma pose barriers to their full participation and equality. However, the formal definition of disability in 2009 was a significant step towards recognizing and addressing the rights and needs of persons with disabilities in Ethiopia.