Can Zimbabwe’s new disability vision transform lives of Children with Disabilities?

BY STEVE EPHRAEM

In rural areas, food insecurity is a silent driver of abuse and exploitation for Children with Disabilities (CwDs). Those who control food distribution often wield power over vulnerable children, using hunger as a tool for manipulation.

Dependency is dangerous for both adults and children. It strips away one’s dignity and safety.

This year’s National Disability Expo held at Chinotimba Stadium in Victoria Falls from June 25-27 carried a bold theme, “Acclerating Disability Inclusion Now: A Collective Responsibility” that brought attention to the world the need for integrating Persons with Disabilities into all facets of society, including employment and entrepreneurship.

In a statement, delivered on his behalf by Deputy President Dr Kembo Mohadi, President Dr E.D. Mnangagwa rejected the outdated charity-based approach for Persons with Disability in favour of true empowerment.

“Instead of the traditional model of giving charity fish, as passive objects of society, let’s all give them the fishing lines and empower them to be self-reliant. There is need for social transformation and complete change of mindset from charity model towards participatory and people centred model and human rights model,” he said.

That is a very powerful message that could reshape the future for Children with Disabilities, especially those in rural areas.

This vision, if realised, could redefine the future for Children with Disabilities, particularly in rural areas where exclusion runs deep.

For too long, these children have been sidelined; denied education, social inclusion, and economic opportunities due to stigma and systemic neglect. Many grow up without access to inclusive schools, assistive devices, or vocational training, leaving them trapped in cycles of dependency.

For change, people should shift their mindset from treating disability as a problem to be pitied by charity to empowering the children with skills, confidence, and opportunities.

Some development partners are already leading the way. A good example is Regional Psychosocial Support Initiative (REPSSI), with funding from Christian Blind Mission (CBM) Global and Irish Aid, which is implementing the EQuaLISED Project in Chimanimani and Chipinge.

This initiative builds on the earlier Inclusive Communities Project, which from 2021 to 2024 raised awareness, strengthened capacity, and provided psychosocial support to Persons with Disabilities and their caregivers.

EQuaLISED focuses on enhancing rights, inclusion, and resilience for Persons with Disabilities and their families. Such programs are crucial in shifting mindsets; proving that with the right support, Children with Disabilities can thrive as active, self-reliant members of society.

The road from charity to empowerment can take long, but if communities, government, and development partners unite behind this mission, the future for Children with Disabilities may finally be one of dignity, opportunity, and independence.