Story by Fungai Jachi
MASVINGO is set to host the National Disability Expo 2026 this week, with more than 500 exhibitors expected to converge at Mucheke Stadium for a landmark event aimed at advancing disability inclusion, empowerment and economic participation.
The three-day expo, running from Wednesday to Friday, will bring together Government officials, civil society organisations, development partners and disability advocacy groups to showcase achievements, promote accessibility and strengthen efforts to place disability issues at the centre of national development.
President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa is expected to officially open the expo on Friday.
Director for Coordination of Government Programmes in the Office of the Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ms Rosemary Chingwe, said preparations for the event have been completed, with the province ready to host delegates and exhibitors from across the country.
“Everything is in order, and we are just waiting for the day to come. We are expecting many exhibitors to come through and showcase what they are doing. Everyone is ready and prepared for this year’s expo, and as a province, we are ready to host this prestigious event,” she said.
Stakeholders have also expressed excitement ahead of the event, encouraging persons with disabilities to attend and take advantage of the opportunities on offer.
“This is a good platform to be heard and showcase the progress we have made as a country. A lot has improved for persons with disabilities, and this is a platform to demonstrate what we can do,” Zimbabwe Association of the Visually Handicapped representative, Mr Timothy Mudarikwa, said.
“We are really excited about this opportunity, and as a province, it is a chance to showcase what we can offer. It is time to show that disability is not inability. We have been empowered, and we are ready to demonstrate it,” National Chairperson of Disability Expo 2026, Mr Charles Mugwamba, said.
The expo is organised by the Office of the President and Cabinet through the Office of the Special Advisor to the President and Cabinet. It serves as a platform for action and advocacy, while reinforcing the need to place disability issues at the centre of national programming and development initiatives.
It also seeks to promote the accessibility of programmes, services and infrastructure for persons with disabilities.
The expo will run under the theme: “Embracing Disability Inclusion in All Sectors: A Masterstroke for National Prosperity and Economic Development.”
