Online Reporter
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
A display of community solidarity in Gwanda District’s Sukwi area has seen local villagers construct a new home for resident Mr Survious Moyo, who lives with an intellectual disability. The collective effort was prompted by Mr Moyo’s challenging circumstances, and also included a donation of essential groceries.
The initiative followed a training session by the Nkomwa Foundation Trust (NFT), a Matabeleland South-based organisation that advocates for the rights of people living with disabilities.
Going forward, the community plans to identify other persons with disabilities (PWDs) in their area and explore possible interventions to improve their living conditions while ensuring their rights are upheld.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, NFT Executive Director Mr Pick Nkomwa said everyone has the right to dignity and support, commending the Sukwi community for embracing the call to ensure inclusion of PWDs. He stressed that recognising and upholding the rights of persons with disabilities is crucial to their empowerment.
“We are thrilled to see the community come together to support Survious Moyo, a person with a disability, by building him a safe and accessible home. This initiative promotes the well-being and inclusivity of persons with disabilities in several ways.
“It recognises their inherent dignity and worth, demonstrating that they are valued members of the community. Secondly, it provides Survious with a secure and accessible living space, which is essential for his physical and emotional well-being,” he said.
Mr Nkomwa also urged communities to take a stand and care for PWDs, reminding them that they have rights like any other human beings. He said for communities to fully develop, PWDs must be uplifted.
The trust will continue raising awareness on disability issues while capacitating and empowering PWDs.
He further encouraged all communities to embrace inclusion.
“We urge other communities to take a similar approach by establishing strong support systems for persons with disabilities. This can include providing accessible infrastructure, social support, and economic empowerment opportunities. By working together, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment that allows persons with disabilities to thrive,” he said.
The initiative by the Ward 18 community is a shining example of what can be achieved when communities unite to support their most vulnerable members.
“We commend the community for their efforts and encourage others to follow their lead,” he added.
Gwanda Rural District Council Chairperson and Ward 18 Councillor, Mr Mphathiswa Ncube, emphasised the importance of prioritising initiatives that promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities.
He encouraged communities to take proactive steps in supporting and empowering PWDs, ensuring they have equal access to opportunities and services.
Clr Ncube said every community has a role to play in protecting and empowering PWDs.
“I am honoured to see the community rally around Survious Moyo, a person with a disability, to build him a safe and secure home. This initiative demonstrates the power of community-led action and the importance of prioritising the needs of persons with disabilities.
“I encourage other wards to take a similar approach by conducting needs assessments, identifying persons with disabilities, and providing them with support and services that promote their well-being.
“We must work together to create a society that values and includes persons with disabilities, and provides them with opportunities to thrive.
We should remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities and continue to work with partners to make our communities more inclusive and accessible,” he said. — @DubeMatutu
