Newshub Reporter
BUSINESSES have been challenged to invest in infrastructure that accommodates people with disabilities and ensure they are included in the workforce, with Government urging the private sector to make accessibility a standard feature of commercial developments.
Speaking at the launch and official opening of Zapalala Supermarket in Maphisa, Matabeleland South recently, Special Adviser on Disability Issues in the Office of the President and Cabinet, Ms Rossy Mpofu, commended the business for designing premises that are accessible to people with disabilities.
She urged other businesses to emulate Zapalala supermarket by ensuring that their buildings and facilities are inclusive and enable everyone to access goods and services with dignity.
Ms Mpofu said accessibility should go beyond providing entry into business premises, calling on companies to also recognise the skills and capabilities of people with disabilities by giving them employment opportunities.
“I congratulate Zapalala for having a structure that accommodates the disabled. The door is friendly to everyone. Look after them well. I urge every business to do that. Other businesses must emulate Zapalala in having infrastructure that is accommodative to the disabled. Also include the disabled as part of your workforce. There are many who are qualified to do certain jobs.”
Ms Mpofu also welcomed Zapalala’s decision to establish a business in Maphisa, saying its presence would improve access to goods and services for local communities while bringing wholesale supplies closer to small businesses.
She said the development was in line with the Government’s objectives under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which seeks to bring businesses and services closer to communities.
“What you are doing is what the Government wants. According to National Development Strategy 2, you are bringing business closer to the people and your wholesale is helping other small businesses to get stock from closer,” she said.
Ms Mpofu also applauded the supermarket for accepting local currency, saying this was important in serving communities where some businesses were reportedly reluctant to accept it.
“We are happy that you are accepting our local currency. Other shops don’t accept our local currency,” she said.
