By Staff Reporter
Windhoek, August 25 — In a commendable initiative aligned with its Sustainable Development Goals Initiative (SDGI) and Leave No One Behind principle, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) handed over essential IT equipment to the Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs). This significant contribution was facilitated by a ceremony held at the Disability Resource Centre (DRC) in Okuryangava on August 23, 2023.
The provision of IT equipment by GIZ marks a pivotal moment for the OPDs, as it supports the Sustainable Development Goals and furthers the Leave No One Behind principle. This substantial handover will enhance the OPDs’ capabilities in data collection and signifies the culmination of the GIZ Disability Data Collection Project. Launched in 2021 and scheduled to conclude in 2023, this project aims to gather data that can profoundly improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. An assessment conducted in 2022 by Green Enterprise Solutions and Disability Expert Consultant Mr. Ebenhard Ripunda revealed glaring IT infrastructure gaps within the OPDs.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, GIZ forged a partnership with the OPDs to address these gaps and strengthen their data collection endeavours. The IT equipment donation encompasses a range of resources, including desktop computers, monitors, and tablets. These tools are meticulously designed to facilitate efficient data digitization, storage, and advocacy efforts. Recently, Mr. Ripunda conducted training sessions for OPD leaders and assistants, imparting skills in utilizing the Kobo toolbox and Kobo Collect applications. Kobo Toolbox, a free and open-source data collection tool, empowers users to collect information through mobile devices like phones and tablets, as well as via paper or computers. This technology proves particularly invaluable for tasks such as membership registration, needs assessments, monitoring, and other data collection activities.
Rachel Shiweda, a technical advisor at GIZ, underscored the transformative potential of the collected data. She affirmed, “The data being collected can be used by our policymakers for better policies and also by OPDs to advocate better for their needs and services for their members.”
The project holds immense significance as accurate, up-to-date disability data forms the bedrock of informed policymaking and effective advocacy. In this domain, OPDs assume a pivotal role.
A spokesperson representing one of the OPDs conveyed heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing, “We are grateful for the IT device donations from GIZ, and this contribution will significantly enhance our operational efficiency and, most importantly, enable us to capture disaggregated data for people with disabilities.”
The ceremonious handover of IT equipment to the OPDs stands as a decisive stride towards realizing sustainable and inclusive development. This initiative harmonizes with GIZ’s steadfast commitment to fostering positive change through innovative approaches and collaborative partnerships.
