Story by Abigirl Tembo, Health Editor
PERSONS with disabilities in Zimbabwe have praised President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration for its efforts to promote inclusivity and equality.
This came out when they met the President at State House, Harare this Wednesday, to push for greater opportunities and equality.
They also commended the administration’s commitment to disability inclusion which has been demonstrated through various initiatives.
“The fact that we have been invited to the State House to have a discussion with the President shows that we have a listening and a caring President and we are grateful for all the support we are receiving from government,” a person with disabilities said.
“All children with disabilities are getting free education up to university level and we are grateful because we are being empowered to be self-reliant,” another added.
“I got a farm and I also got capital to start my farming projects which include poultry and would like to commend the government and my wish is for everyone to get such kind of empowerment.”
Special Advisor on National Disability Issues in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Honourable Rose Mpofu expressed heartfelt gratitude to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for taking time to listen to the concerns of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and engage with them.
“We are grateful for President Mnangagwa’s leadership as government is working on providing for the needs and requirements of PWDs. PWDs are being assigned to key positions in our government ministries and we have you our President to thank for that. The National Disability Policy has enabled all that. You are a good father and a listening President,” she said.
The Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, Honourable Edgar Moyo, noted that the government is working to provide for the needs and requirements of Persons with Disabilities.
“Persons with disabilities are also empowered through revolving loans and grants to promote sustainable communities and independent living. National social protection programmes like basic educational assistance module, food deficit manual strategy and assisted medical treatment order among others also benefit persons with disabilities.
“Furthermore, support is also provided through capital and administration grants to push institutions that provide residential care to persons with disabilities. Employees that get injured or die on official duty are also compensated through the State Service Benefits Act. Yes, Your Excellency, resources from Treasury may not always come on time, but the situation is improving.”
This is a major milestone for Zimbabwe’s Persons with Disabilities, marking a new era of inclusivity and empowerment.
