Online Reporter
Disability Issues
Dr Christine Peta
TODAY we focus on the intersection of disability and being of African descent, especially as Zimbabwe joins the rest of the world in commemorating the International Day for People of African Descent, which is observed on August 31 every year.
The topic of disability and people of African descent is complex, touching on identity, justice and inclusion. Whether in Africa or across the diaspora, it reveals deep structural inequalities and also highlights vibrant movements for empowerment and dignity.
People of African descent with disabilities often face compounded discrimination — both racial and ableist. This is especially pronounced in migrant contexts, where they may be viewed as “burdens” or “gate crashers” in host societies.
In many African communities, disability is still associated with evil spirits, witchcraft, shame, illness or punishment.
These cultural stigmas can lead to social exclusion and limited access to education, healthcare and employment.
Rural schools in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa may lack basic accessibility features like ramps, accessible toilets or learning materials in Braille or sign language.
Many educators have not been trained in inclusive education. This makes it harder for them to adapt teaching methods for different needs. Furthermore, some cultural beliefs may lead families to keep children with disabilities at home instead of sending them to school, sometimes out of fear of discrimination or community shame.
Even when persons with disabilities of African descent have qualifications, workplace discrimination, inaccessible buildings and a lack of assistive technology can shut them out.
Many end up in informal work because formal job markets are generally not inclusive, which limits job security and benefits.
However, disability rights in Africa are gaining momentum, especially with the ratification of the African Disability Protocol, which came into force in June 2024.
This landmark treaty embodies the continent’s commitment to inclusion, dignity and justice for persons with disabilities.
Some scholars are developing frameworks that reflect African realities — combining traditional communalist values with modern disability rights to create more inclusive societies.
Such an approach shifts the experiences of people of African descent with disabilities from the global periphery to the forefront.
Countries like Botswana, Rwanda, South Africa and Zimbabwe are using household surveys to better understand and address the needs of persons with disabilities.
They also have progressive disability policies and legal frameworks, while efforts are being made to strengthen representation in professional sectors.
In international advocacy, grassroots groups are merging disability rights with racial justice work, thus amplifying voices of those who experience both forms of discrimination.
Culture is also a powerful tool.
Art, music and storytelling can be used to reframe narratives — showing disability as a part of identity, not a deficit.
Platforms like the International Decade for People of African Descent are encouraging countries to track and improve outcomes for persons with disabilities.
The aim is to promote the extraordinary contributions of the African diaspora around the world and to eliminate all forms of discrimination against people of African descent, including those with disabilities.
The United Nations (UN) asserts that any doctrine of racial superiority is scientifically false, morally condemnable, socially unjust and dangerous.
Additionally, the UN strongly condemns the continuing violent practices and excessive use of force by law-enforcement agencies against people of African descent, which, in some instances, result in disabilities or worsen existing ones.
The UN further condemns structural racism in criminal justice systems around the world.
Understanding the intersection of disability and being of African descent is essential for building inclusive societies. It is not just about disability or race, but how systems of power and exclusion overlap.
It is about recognising the resilience and leadership of people who live at that intersection of disability and being African.
Dr Christine Peta is a disability, public health, policy, international development and research expert. She can be contacted on: [email protected]
Online Reporter