Online Reporter
Disability Issues
Dr Christine Peta
ON October 17, Zimbabwe, just like other countries across the world, commemorated the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.
Poverty is a persistent global challenge, but for persons with disabilities (PWDs), it is often compounded by systemic exclusion, discrimination and a profound lack of access to essential services.
As the world intensifies efforts to meet Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, eradication of poverty among PWDs has emerged as a critical priority — one that demands inclusive policies, targeted investments and a fundamental shift in societal attitudes.
Persons with disabilities are more likely to experience poverty because they frequently face barriers to employment, education and social participation.
Families supporting PWDs often incur extra costs for care, assistive devices and transportation.
For example, a blind person may need to pay double fare for public transport for themselves and an assistant.
Furthermore, social stigma, which in some instances arises from traditional beliefs that associate disability with witchcraft, evil spirits or breaking of traditional taboos, can result in extreme isolation of PWDs, reducing their opportunities and access to vital support networks.
Conversely, poor people are generally more vulnerable to disabilities due to a complex web of social, economic and environmental factors.
Many poor individuals may not seek out preventive healthcare, early diagnosis or treatment, leading to untreated conditions that ultimately cause disabilities.
Lack of maternal care and poor nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood can result in developmental disabilities.
Children from poor families may also miss school, reducing their future job prospects and increasing their exposure to risky jobs that can cause injury, illness and disability.
Chronic poverty is also strongly linked to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, which can become disabling conditions.
Nonetheless, Zimbabwe has made great strides towards breaking the cycle of poverty among PWDs.
In June 2021, President Mnangagwa launched the National Disability Policy.
The policy not only identified gaps but also provided solutions in its implementation framework for better coordination, service delivery, budgetary support and improved access to quality education, healthcare and employment.
It also aims for stronger linkages among service providers.
All Government social protection programmes, including health and education assistance, are now inclusive of PWDs.
The Public Service Commission is actively promoting inclusive hiring practices and advocating for the provision of reasonable accommodation by ministries, departments and agencies.
Furthermore, under the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Financial Inclusion Strategy, the Thematic Working Group on Persons with Disabilities is promoting microfinance programmes that are specifically tailored for varied needs.
Diverse stakeholders have also rolled out awareness campaigns, inclusive media representation and community dialogues to challenge stereotypes and promote empathy.
The core message is that PWDs must be seen as active contributors to society, not as passive recipients of aid.
To bolster these efforts, there is a need to strengthen the availability of current and reliable disability data across sectors.
Accountability mechanisms, such as independent audits and citizen feedback platforms, can ensure transparency and responsiveness in policy implementation.
Eradicating poverty among PWDs is not the responsibility of the Government alone.
Civil society, businesses, the academia and international development partners all have crucial roles to play.
Collaboration across sectors can drive innovation, scale successful models and amplify impact.
As we reflect on the just-ended International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, the message is clear: inclusion is not optional — it is essential.
By centring the voices and needs of persons with disabilities, Zimbabwe and other nations can build more just, resilient and prosperous societies.
The road ahead may be long, but with commitment and compassion, we can ensure that no one is left behind.
Dr Christine Peta is a disability, public health, policy, international development and research expert. She can be contacted on: [email protected]
