Story by Tamuka Charakupa
PEOPLE with disabilities in Kadoma have welcomed the government’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusive development, citing improved access to services, infrastructure and empowerment opportunities aligned with the National Disability Policy.
During a community engagement meeting with church leaders this week, beneficiaries said the Second Republic’s emphasis on leaving no one behind is beginning to translate into practical change on the ground.
Just last week, 15 people with disabilities in the constituency received residential stands from a local land developer, a development they describe as life-changing.
“For years, we felt like our needs were spoken about but never acted upon. Now, with the Disability Policy Bill in motion, we are finally seeing structures being put in place, ramps at public buildings, designated service counters and even access to information in formats we can use. These might look small to others, but to us they represent dignity. Government’s commitment to inclusion is something we welcome and we hope the momentum continues,” a beneficiary said.
“One of the major challenges we faced was communication. Most national programmes were not explained in ways accessible to people with visual impairments. But that is changing. Information is now being shared through audio platforms and meetings like this one. Today, I feel fully part of the national conversation. The effort to include us is not symbolic, it is practical. It shows that the country recognises our contribution,” a community member stated.
“Our community has always dealt with double challenges, living with a disability and facing stigma. The new inclusion programmes are beginning to address both. We are receiving sunscreen lotions at local clinics, awareness campaigns are growing, and economic empowerment initiatives now consider people with albinism. This is the first time we are seeing a policy that touches our real-day experiences. We feel seen, supported and encouraged to participate in development,” another beneficiary noted.
Zimbabwe Amalgamated Council of Churches (ZACC) leaders welcomed the collaboration, noting the important role faith based institutions play in supporting vulnerable groups and promoting community driven development.
“The church stands ready to support these programmes. Inclusion is central to our mission and partnerships like this help uplift our communities,” a community leader stated.
National Chairperson for People with Disabilities for ED, Cde Jimaya Muduvuri, said the organisation is focused on ensuring members understand ongoing reforms and how they advance national development goals.
“Our focus is on ensuring our members understand the resolutions and how they align with the national inclusion agenda. We want every person with a disability to feel empowered and represented. In that respect, we fully rally behind Resolution 1 that President Mnangagwa should see through the attainment of Vision 2030,” Cde Muduvuri said.
The Second Republic, through its inclusive policy of leaving no one and no place behind, has established a disability desk in the public service to cater for the needs of people with disabilities.
