By Tamuka Charakupa
THE disability community and church leaders have welcomed the enactment of Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3, describing it as a progressive legal framework that promotes inclusive governance and national development.
Disability rights advocate Mr Charles Mugwamba said the amendment strengthens the inclusion of people with disabilities in national development.
“Government continues to prioritise disability issues through policies and legislation that ensure we are not left behind. Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 reinforces inclusive governance and creates an environment where people with disabilities can access empowerment opportunities, participate in economic activities and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development,” he said.
Another disability activist, Ms Angelina Ziyenge, said the amendment reflects continued recognition of the role of people with disabilities in national development.
“We appreciate the leadership that continues to recognise our contribution to national development. We are confident that His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa will continue steering the country towards the attainment of Vision 2030. Our appeal is for the continued implementation of programmes that empower vulnerable groups so that everyone benefits from Zimbabwe’s economic transformation,” she said.
Church leaders also welcomed the amendment, saying it presents an opportunity to strengthen national unity, social justice and inclusive development.
Bishop Nesbert Muchena said peace and stability remain essential for sustainable development.
“As the Church, we believe peace and stability are essential ingredients for sustainable development. We have witnessed progress in different sectors under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 provides a platform for strengthening governance and fostering an environment where every citizen has the opportunity to contribute to national prosperity,” he said.
Archbishop Stanley Muchengwa urged Zimbabweans to continue praying for the nation and its leadership.
“The Church has a responsibility to pray for the nation and for those entrusted with leadership. We urge Zimbabweans to continue praying for our leaders so that they are guided by wisdom in making decisions that promote peace, unity and development,” he said.
National Chairperson for People with Disabilities for Economic Development, Mr Jimayi Muduvuri said the amendment reflects the Government’s commitment to addressing the aspirations of vulnerable groups.
“Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 will help drive inclusive development by ensuring that all Zimbabweans have a stake in the country’s future. We commend the Second Republic for introducing the National Disability Policy, which has placed disability programming at the centre of national development planning,” he said.
He added that improvements in the economy, including greater availability of basic commodities and increased currency stability, were creating a more conducive environment for people with disabilities to participate in productive economic activities.
Constitutional Amendment Act No. 3 is among the legislative measures expected to strengthen inclusive governance, enhance citizen participation and accelerate Zimbabwe’s development agenda.
