The Government of Zimbabwe has called on all stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and commitment in promoting disability inclusion across the country.
Speaking at the ongoing International Disability Conference in Bulawayo, Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Edgar Moyo, through the Director of Employment, Mrs. Maureen Dhliwayo, highlighted Zimbabwe’s progress in aligning disability initiatives with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“The government is providing access to free basic education, vocational and skills training, assistive devices, mental health support, economic empowerment grants and loans, drug and substance abuse mitigation programs, sustainable livelihoods initiatives, and employment opportunities,” said Mrs. Dhliwayo.
Minister Moyo emphasized that inclusion is a right, not a favor. “Persons with disabilities are not passive recipients of aid; they are active agents of change,” he said.
The three-day conference, held under the theme “Helping People to Help Themselves: Global Unity – Shared Progress,” has attracted stakeholders from government ministries, civil society, the private sector, and organisations representing persons with disabilities.
Dr. Christine Peta, Director of the Capacity Building Centre for Africa, stressed the significance of the event as a platform to amplify voices, share ideas, and drive inclusive development.
“The conference is not just about discussion—it is about transformation. We encourage everyone to engage fully, collaborate openly, challenge assumptions, confront barriers, and inspire one another,” Dr. Peta said.