Online Reporter
Theseus Shambare
MORE than 1 000 learners with disabilities enrolled at nine centres run by the Jairos Jiri Association for the Rehabilitation of the Disabled and Blind are set to benefit from a targeted nutritional support programme rolled out by the World Food Programme (WFP) to strengthen health and learning outcomes.
Founded in 1950, the Jairos Jiri Association is one of Zimbabwe’s oldest and most respected institutions serving people with disabilities, providing education, rehabilitation, health care, residential care and vocational training to children and adults across the country.
Its nine centres remain a critical lifeline for families seeking specialised support for learners with diverse disabilities.
The WFP intervention — which includes the short-term distribution of 24 tonnes of cereals, five tonnes of pulses and one tonne of vegetable oil — comes at a time the association has been grappling with acute resource shortages that have threatened the delivery of inclusive education and care.
Jairos Jiri Association national executive director Ms Grace Kamanga said the support could not have come at a more critical moment.
“We are extremely grateful for this assistance. It will go a long way in supporting our young learners, especially given the persistent financial and operational challenges we have been facing,” she said.
However, rising operating costs, limited funding streams and ageing infrastructure have placed pressure on the institution’s ability to consistently provide adequate nutrition, specialised services and learning materials.
WFP Zimbabwe country director Ms Barbara Clemens said while the food support would cushion the centres in the immediate term, there was need for broader, longer-term interventions.
“Children need nutritious food, books, furniture and other tools to unlock their full potential. The staff, who work tirelessly despite many challenges, also deserve sustained support,” she said.
Complementary efforts such as nutrition gardens, upgraded communal kitchens and programmes promoting dietary diversity are being encouraged to build sustainable resilience within the centres.
The situation at Jairos Jiri, observers say, reflects a broader national imperative to strengthen inclusive education and social protection systems, ensuring that learners with disabilities are not left behind as Zimbabwe accelerates efforts to expand access to quality education for all.
