National Survey on person with Disabilities in Ethiopia

Highlights

On 24 September 2026, the findings of Ethiopia’s first-ever National Survey on Persons with Disabilities were launched at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Addis Ababa during a dissemination event organized by the Policy Studies Institute (PSI) and MoWSA in partnership with UNICEF Ethiopia and FCDO (UK Aid). The event brought together government institutions, organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), academia, civil society organizations and development partners to discuss the first comprehensive national evidence base on the situation of persons with disabilities in Ethiopia. Based on data collected from more than 42,000 individuals across 9,200 households, the survey found that one in five households includes a person with a disability and highlighted significant disparities in access to education, healthcare, employment and social participation. The findings show that children with disabilities are less likely to attend school, persons with disabilities face higher unemployment and greater barriers to essential services, and many experience exclusion that undermines their well-being and quality of life. UNICEF remains committed to partnering with the Government of Ethiopia and key stakeholders to translate these findings into action, strengthening inclusive systems and services so that children and persons with disabilities can access the support, opportunities and protections they need to thrive and contribute fully to society."