Government through the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services with support from various Cooporating Partners has launched three key National Disability Reports aimed at improving the welfare of persons with disabilities.
The three documents launched include the Study Report on Albinism and Rights in Zambia, the Country Report on the Situation Analysis of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the Assistive Technology Assessment Report.
Speaking when she graced the launch, Ministry Permanent Secretary, Ms. Angela Kawandami reaffirmed government’s resolve to ensure that disability inclusion is translated into tangible actions that positively transform lives.
She added that the launch of these reports comes at a critical time when government is implementing the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), which places people at the center of development and underscores inclusivity, equity, and human development as key priorities for achieving the national vision.
The PS highlighted that the Ministry views disability inclusion not as charity but as a matter of rights, dignity, and social justice, recognizing persons with disabilities as equal citizens whose voices, skills, and potential must be fully recognized in national development.
Ms. Kawandami further reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to strengthen policy frameworks, enhance service delivery for persons with disabilities, promote the provision and accessibility of assistive technologies, and ensure the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes.
And United Nations Resident Coordinator. Mr. Najmdimi Bilal appreciated that Zambia has made strides in promoting disability inclusion.
He however said despite the progress made, gaps in service delivery for persons with disabilities still exists.
Mr Bilal further said there is need for collective actualization of the key message in the reports to improve the lives of the people with disabilities.
And in a vote of thanks, Carol Kapungwe commended governmemt for creating an enabling environment for persons with disabilities to participate in socio-economic activities and hoped that the launch of the disability documents will enhance their welfare.
