Online Reporter
Takunda Gambiza
Herald Reporter
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has urged the Government to urgently accelerate the implementation of disability laws and policies to ensure Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) fully enjoy their rights, as the world commemorates International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Wednesday.
The commission said while Zimbabwe has made notable progress through the adoption of the National Disability Policy, the Persons with Disabilities Act and the establishment of the National Disability Board, PWDs continue to face barriers in education, employment, infrastructure and access to information.
In a statement marking the day, running under the theme “Fostering Disability Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress”, the ZHRC applauded the Government for aligning national laws with the Constitution and international conventions such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, ratified in 2013, and the African Charter Protocol ratified in 2018.
Section 83 of the Constitution specifically guarantees the rights of PWDs.
The commission highlighted positive steps, including the disability quota in civil service recruitment, requirements for accessible public buildings, and social protection measures through the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare.
The commission said these were commendable policy directives that demonstrate commitment to inclusion.
However, it warned that implementation gaps remain wide. The commission said PWDs face barriers to infrastructure, education and jobs, with exclusion and unemployment persisting.
“Many PWDs continue to face profound barriers in accessing public infrastructure, transport and information,” it said.
“Inclusive quality education remains elusive for many children with disabilities, with a shortage of trained teachers, learning materials and accessible facilities. High unemployment and underemployment rates among PWDs are perennial.”
The commission said stigma, discrimination, harmful cultural norms and negative attitudes continue to marginalise PWDs, limiting their participation in social, economic and political life.
“Laws and policies must translate into tangible improvements in daily living,” said the ZHRC.
To address these challenges, the ZHRC called on the Government to adequately resource the National Disability Board to fulfil its mandate effectively, strengthen enforcement of employment quotas, and expand inclusive education through teacher training and accessible learning environments.
It also urged sustained national awareness campaigns to combat stigma and promote the rights and entitlements of PWDs.
“Zimbabwe must move decisively from commitment to action,” said the commission, reaffirming its pledge to work with the Government, civil society and stakeholders to promote and protect disability rights.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed annually on December 3 to promote the full and equal enjoyment of human rights by PWDs.
The commission said this year’s theme calls for bridging the gap between policy and practice, ensuring that inclusion is not only a law but one lived in reality.
