Online Reporter
Online Writer
HARARE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to the inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities (PWDs) during a high-level meeting at State House on 5 March 2025.
The event brought together PWDs, government officials, and stakeholders to discuss strategies for advancing disability rights and ensuring their full participation in national development.
In his address, President Mnangagwa highlighted the progress made since the launch of the National Disability Policy in June 2021, which aligns with international conventions such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the African Agenda 2063.
He emphasised the importance of leaving no one behind in the country’s journey towards achieving Vision 2030, a blueprint for Zimbabwe’s socio-economic transformation.
“Guided by our mantra of leaving no one and no place behind, be assured that your voices will always be heard in the formulation of national development policies and programmes,” said President Mnangagwa.
He commended efforts to promote inclusivity, including the recognition of Sign Language as one of Zimbabwe’s 16 official languages and the adoption of braille and other accessible communication formats.
The President also outlined government initiatives to support PWDs, including the establishment of Departments for Gender Mainstreaming, Inclusivity, and Wellness across ministries.
He urged the nation to embrace innovative and inclusive development models, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, mining, and business, to empower PWDs economically.
Special Advisor on National Disability Issues, Cde Rose Mpofu, echoed the President’s sentiments, pledging to roll out high-impact programmes for the empowerment of PWDs.
She highlighted the success of the Zimbabwe National Disability Expo, which provides a platform for PWDs to showcase their talents and engage with government, private sector, and civil society stakeholders.
President Mnangagwa called for the expedited enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Bill and challenged stakeholders to develop a credible database for effective programming and monitoring of disability-related initiatives.
The meeting concluded with a call for unity and collective action to build a modern, industrialised Zimbabwe. “Together, in unity, let us rally our collective skills and willpower to build, modernise, and industrialise our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe. Brick by brick and stone upon stone, we are realising Vision 2030,” said the President.
The event underscored the government’s determination to ensure that PWDs are integral to the country’s development agenda, fostering a more inclusive and equitable
