Story by Tichaona Kurewa
VICTORIA FALLS – PREPARATIONS for the fifth Edition of the National Disability Expo are progressing steadily, with organisers confirming a significant 45% increase in the number of exhibitors compared to last year.
The event, scheduled to run from June 25 to 27 at Chinotimba Stadium will also see participation from regional neighbours, including Zambia.
The annual expo, which this year is hosted by Matabeleland North Province, forms part of government’s broader decentralisation drive aimed at making national programmes more accessible across provinces.
A visit to the venue by ZBC News this Monday revealed brisk activity, with tents being pitched, pathways prepared, and final touches underway to ensure accessibility for all participants, particularly persons with disabilities.
Director in the Office of the Special Advisor on Disability Issues in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Mr Macnon Chirinzepi, confirmed the expansion in participation.
“Every year we witness a steady increase in the number of exhibitors. Last year, we had over 150. This year, we are expecting around 217 organisations, including organisations of persons with disabilities, government ministries, private sector players, universities, parastatals, civil society organisations, and even some embassies. Many have shown interest in exhibiting to promote disability inclusion,” he said.
Chairperson of the National Disability Expo, Mr Sanders Munsaka, praised the Second Republic’s commitment to promoting disability rights.
“The Second Republic has shown commendable commitment to recognising persons with disabilities. It ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and adopted an inclusive national disability policy. We have seen key appointments like a Commissioner with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission and a judge in the High Court, these are strong indicators of progress in disability inclusion,” he said.
This year’s programme also includes awareness campaigns and adaptive sporting disciplines such as wheelchair basketball and inclusive football matches, in a bid to celebrate ability and promote community integration.
The National Disability Expo continues to be a critical platform for raising awareness, promoting innovation in assistive technologies, and fostering inclusive development.
