Online Reporter
MATABELELAND South-based disability organisation, Nkomwa Foundation Trust (NFT), has rolled out an awareness campaign to educate both urban and rural communities on the inclusion of women, youths, and other Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in development processes.
The organisation, in conjunction with Hivos Southern Africa, conducted a disability awareness roadshow in the Gwanda CBD. The roadshows will also be held at business centres in rural areas. These roadshows are also an opportunity to showcase the talents of PWDs, reinforcing the message of inclusion and empowerment.
The awareness campaign is being held under the “Enhancing Meaningful Participation of Women and Youths with Disabilities in Decision-Making Processes” programme.
Nkomwa Foundation Trust executive director, Mr Pick Nkomwa, said the key messages are the protection of persons with disabilities, fighting sexual and gender-based violence against PWDs, protecting and preserving the rights of PWDs, and embracing and promoting inclusion.
“The event was made possible through the collaboration of key stakeholders, which include Local Government, the Department of Social Development, Ministry of Women Affairs, Ministry of Youth, Municipality of Gwanda, and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP). The roadshows are part of a programme which seeks to promote the inclusion of women and youths with disabilities in community development initiatives and leadership roles.
“We are utilising the roadshows to also educate the communities on disability issues in general. The more we dialogue and educate the people on disability issues, the more progress we will record in the inclusion of PWDs,” he said.
The project is being funded by the European Union. It will see traditional and community leaders take a leading role in spearheading the inclusion of PWDs in their communities.
Service providers will also be engaged to enhance accountability.
Mr Nkomwa said this intervention will catalyse transformative change in community development, empowering rural communities and fostering inclusive growth.
He said there is still a huge gap in the inclusion of PWDs, especially in rural areas.
Mr Nkomwa added that targeting women and youths is ideal, as they comprise the bulk of the population.
@DubeMatutu
