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Ivan Zhakata-Herald Correspondent
Children with disabilities are being increasingly protected through the disability inclusive parenting programme of the Government, with superstition replaced with knowledge and improved access to modern healthcare in remote areas of Zimbabwe.
Launched by Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare in collaboration with UNICEF and the Zimbabwe Parents of Handicapped Children Association (ZPHCA), the programme encourages parents and caregivers to seek modern medical assistance for children with disabilities, dispelling harmful myths surrounding their care.
Funded by the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA), the programme seeks to empower caregivers to advocate free access to specialised disability services.
ZPHCA programmes manager Mr Regis Manjoro, said the initiative currently operates in five districts: Harare, Bulawayo, Zvishavane, Beitbridge, and Mutasa.
“We started during the Covid-19 pandemic when our children could not go to school. We taught parents basic skills to support their children and established stimulation centres for inclusive parenting in line with the National Disability Policy. So far, we have set up 18 centres providing physiotherapy and psychosocial support, ensuring children are protected,” he said.
Community childcare worker Mr Simon Bwanya emphasised the programme’s role in raising awareness about the rights of children with disabilities.
“We have managed to engage parents in healthcare facilities, advocating that children with disabilities should not be hidden away.”
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