Story by Tichaona Kurewa
VICTORIA FALLS – THE fifth edition of the National Disability Expo (NDE) kicked off at Chinotimba Stadium in Victoria Falls this Wednesday, drawing over 300 exhibitors eager to engage and inspire.
This year’s edition has attracted exhibitors, including international participants, making it arguably the largest expo to date.
The event is hosted on a rotational basis across provinces, with Matabeleland North playing host this year after Mashonaland Central hosted the previous edition.
Exhibitors expressed optimism about the potential impact of the three-day event, calling on society to promote the independence and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
“We are here as mothers of children living with cerebral palsy. Our message to Zimbabweans is to embrace people with disabilities and include them in everyday life, they are just like anyone else,” an exhibitor said.
“People with disabilities must strive to be self-reliant rather than wait for handouts. That is why we are showcasing the products we produce,” another added.
“We believe in working with our hands to provide for ourselves and our children. We want to show the world that we are capable of working. People should buy our goods, not offer handouts,” an exhibitor noted.
Organisers are upbeat about the expo’s success.
“This year’s expo has seen overwhelming success. We now have over 360 exhibitors. Hosting it in Victoria Falls has boosted interest, it is a unique chance for people to combine work with leisure,” National Disability Expo’s Chairperson, Mr Sanders Munsaka said.
The 2025 edition of the expo, running from June 25 to June 27, will also feature awareness programmes and inclusive sporting activities such as wheelchair basketball and disability-friendly soccer matches.
To round up the activities, artists living with disabilities, including Greatman and Chipo Muchengwa are set to perform, adding a cultural dimension to the event.
