Online Reporter
Conrad Mupesa
Mashonaland West Bureau
Mashonaland West has strengthened efforts to promote disability inclusion following the inaugural meeting of the Provincial Disability Technical Committee, chaired by Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Marian Chombo, in Chinhoyi on Thursday.
The committee brings together representatives from Government ministries, departments and agencies, the private sector and non-governmental organisations to drive implementation of disability policies at the provincial and district level.
Speaking at the meeting, Minister Chombo described the committee as a critical platform for action, accountability and measurable progress in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.
She said its establishment aligns with President Mnangagwa’s vision of “Leaving No One and No Place Behind.”
“This is not just a political slogan; it is a binding national commitment that must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of persons with disabilities,” she said.
Minister Chombo said the committee embodies devolution by ensuring disability policy implementation moves from the national level to provinces, districts and communities.
Its mandate, she noted, is anchored in Section 4 of the National Disability Policy that calls for disability focal points in all Government ministries and agencies.
She highlighted barriers affecting persons with disabilities, including inaccessible infrastructure, stigma, limited budget allocations and policy implementation gaps.
Many public buildings, schools, health facilities and transport systems, she said, still lack ramps, handrails and accessible ablution facilities respectively.
Zimbabwe has, however, recorded milestones such as ratifying the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, launching the National Disability Policy and enacting the Disability Act 3 of 2025.
In Mashonaland West, district disability committees are being established, while persons with disabilities have excelled at the Danhiko Paralympic Games and showcased innovations at the National Disability Expo.
Mashonaland West Social Development Coordinator, Mrs Agnes Mutowo, welcomed the committee, saying it would improve coordination and ease the burden on her department.
“This committee will make our work much easier. With better information sharing and collaboration, we can reduce duplication, reach deserving beneficiaries on time and plan more effectively,” she said.
It is expected to meet regularly to monitor the implementation of disability policies, track progress across districts and recommend practical interventions to improve accessibility and inclusion in the province.
