Story by Fungai Jachi
GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering persons with disabilities, with a focus on domestically implementing the African Disability Protocol (ADP) as a key priority.
In May last year, Zimbabwe ratified the ADP, marking a significant step towards enhancing the inclusion of people with disabilities.
To further this commitment, the government launched the ADP Realisation Project in Harare, to ensure the full domestication of the ADP, which includes the enactment of laws that fully protect persons with disabilities from any form of discrimination.
Development partners acknowledge strides made by government so far to empower persons with disabilities while calling for a speedy enactment of legislation that will fully protect the rights of persons with disabilities.
“The good thing about Zimbabwe is that after ratifying the protocol, it is already in the process of enacting a new disability law with the bill already before parliament. We are so sure and confident that when the law is enacted, it will automatically ratify the protocol,” Sightsavers Country Director, Mr Peter Bare stated.
The EU’s Deputy Head of Mission, Mrs Lourdes Chamorro also praised Zimbabwe’s efforts, acknowledging the significant strides the government has made in including persons with disabilities across various sectors.
“Zimbabwe has made tremendous strides in including persons with disabilities in various sectors. The government’s commitment shows that they are in the right direction as far as improving the livelihoods of PWDs.”
Government says it will continue to support people with disabilities, while legislators say they will keep pushing for laws that are inclusive.
“The Second Republic is walking the talk in its inclusive agenda. There is also need for parliament to expedite the enactment of the new Disability Law so that more opportunities are created. Government’s inclusion policy will ensure that everyone is included in the development of the nation,” Director of the Office of Special Advisor on Disability, Mr Macnon Chirinzepi noted.
The ADP stands as a premier pan-African human rights treaty crafted to tackle the diverse forms of discrimination impacting people with disabilities in Africa, encompassing harmful practices, beliefs and superstitions.
