Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka, Senior Reporter
THE Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube has commended President Mnangagwa for his continued efforts to support and uplift vulnerable communities, including persons with dis-abilities.
Speaking at the Jairos Jiri Fundraising Fete at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo yesterday,
Minister Ncube said the Second Republic remained committed to promoting the rights, dignity and welfare of persons with dis-abilities.
She said President Mnangagwa’s commitment to leaving no one and no place behind continued to inspire efforts to build an inclusive society.
“Allow me to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, for the work that he continues to do in supporting and uplifting vulnerable communities, including persons with disabilities,” she said.
“His commitment to leaving no one and no place behind continues to inspire efforts towards building a more inclusive nation where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive.”
Minister Ncube said the Government recognised the important role played by organisations such as the Jairos Jiri Association in empowering persons with disabilities through education, vocational training, rehabilitation and other support services.
She said for many years, the Jairos Jiri Association has been a beacon of hope, providing education, vocational training, rehabilitation services and support to thousands of people with disabilities.
“The organisation has played a significant role in empowering individuals and enabling them to participate meaningfully in society,” said Minister Ncube.
She said the Government would continue working with the private sector, civil society organisations and communities to create an inclusive and accessible Zimbabwe.
“As Government, we remain committed to promoting the rights, dignity and welfare of persons with disabilities. We recognise that disability is not inability and that every citizen deserves equal opportunities to contribute to national development,” said Minister Ncube.
She said the fundraising fete and the Jairos Jiri Half Marathon were important platforms for mobilising re-sources while raising awareness on the needs and capabilities of persons with disabilities.
“These events provide an opportunity for the community to come together in support of a noble cause while promoting healthy lifestyles, social inclusion and community spirit,” said Minister Ncube.
She also applauded sponsors, exhibitors, volunteers and other stakeholders for supporting the fete, urging individuals, companies and organisations to continue supporting the Jairos Jiri Association beyond the event.
“Together, we can help create sustainable opportunities that empower persons with disabilities to live independent, productive, and fulfilling lives,” said the minister.
Speaking at the same event, Jairos Jiri Association vice-president Mr Lumbert Tanyaradzwa
Chinoda said inclusion should be viewed as a fundamental human right rather than an act of charity.
He said society should look beyond physical impairments and recognise the abilities, talents and potential of persons with disabilities.
“Disability is not inability and inclusion is not a charity. It is indeed a human right,” said Mr Chinoda.
He noted that despite physical barriers, systemic gaps and negative societal attitudes, persons with disabilities continued to demonstrate resilience, creativity and strength.
“When we look at our community, do not look at what is missing, but at what is present. Look at our artists, our athletes, our schools, our leaders and our workers,” he said.
Mr Chinoda said providing accessible spaces and equal opportunities in education, skills training and healthcare would enable persons with disabilities to excel.
“When given accessible spaces, equal opportunities and fair access to education, skills training and healthcare, persons with a disability do not just participate. We excel,” he said.
Mr Chinoda also thanked sponsors, including the Lions Club of Bulawayo and the City of Bulawayo, saying their support was an investment in the potential of persons with disabilities.
He urged participants in the Jairos Jiri Half Marathon to use the event to promote inclusion and demonstrate that persons with disabilities could participate fully in society.
“Every stride taken is a statement to the world. We are moving forward. Together, we will not be left behind,” he said.
The fete was held under the theme “Run for Inclusion, Run for Ability”, with the accompanying half marathon featuring wheelchair racers and runners competing in 21km, 10km and 5km races.
