adminLocadia Mavhudzi Midlands Correspondent
WOMEN living in rural areas have been urged to take a leading role in protecting the rights of children living with disabilities as there have been reports of a surge in cases of their abuse.
Speaking during a Women’s Coalition workshop on mobilisation, lobby and advocacy in Gweru, Zimbabwe Paraplegic and Quadriplegic Association director Mrs Belinda Msesengwa, said people living with disability in the rural areas have an added disadvantage because their concerns are often hidden under the carpet.
“I urge you women from the rural areas to take a leading role in advocating for the rights of disabled children.
“They are often raped and impregnated while we as women look on.
“There have been reports of an increase in cases of abuse of children living with disabilities in rural areas, therefore, the need for you to advocate for their rights,” she said.
Mrs Msesengwa said it is disheartening to note that discriminatory and derogatory language is often associated with the rape of disabled females.
Online Reporter