Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve
Victoria Falls Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has called for a paradigm shift in the approach to disability inclusion, urging society to move away from treating persons with disabilities as passive recipients of charity and instead empower them to be self-reliant and active contributors to national development.
The President’s remarks were delivered by Vice President Kembo Mohadi during the official opening of the Zimbabwe National Disability Expo 2025 in Victoria Falls today.
The expo, running under the theme “Accelerating Disability Inclusion Now: A Collective Responsibility,” seeks to promote the rights and economic participation of persons with disabilities.
In his speech, President Mnangagwa said persons with disabilities are entitled to the same dignity, rights, and opportunities like all other citizens.
“Persons with disabilities have to be treated with utmost dignity and respect. They are entitled to all the rights we have as human beings and must fully enjoy them,” he said.
The Second Republic, he noted, is committed to upscaling disability inclusion in line with Vision 2030, the National Development Strategy (NDS), and the National Disability Policy.
“My Government, being people-centred, will continue to upscale the inclusion of persons with disabilities in national development.
“Guided by Vision 2030, the National Development Strategy One and Two, the National Disability Policy and the relevant legislation, my Government will always walk the talk and enhance the inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also challenged the traditional charity model, advocating instead for empowerment initiatives that foster self-reliance.
“Instead of the traditional charity model of giving persons with disabilities fish, as passive objects of charity, let us give them the fishing line and empower them to be self-reliant,” he said.
He called for a mindset shift, urging society to focus on participation and equality, rather than pity.
The President highlighted practical steps being taken by the Government, including the finalisation of the Persons with Disabilities Bill, which will address key concerns of persons with disabilities.
He also emphasised the importance of accessible infrastructure, inclusive education, and employment opportunities.
