The Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Ms. Doreen Mwamba has unveiled new Boards of Management for the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) and the National Trust Fund for Persons with Disabilities (NTFPD).
Speaking during the unveiling ceremony, the Minister described the development as a significant milestone aimed at strengthening governance, oversight and strategic direction in the two statutory institutions, which play a central role in promoting the rights, welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Zambia.
The Minister further said the appointment of the boards reflects Government’s commitment to effective leadership, accountability and improved service delivery.
She noted that strong boards are vital in providing strategic guidance and policy oversight, while allowing management teams to focus on daily operations and programme implementation.
For ZAPD, the board chaired by Mr. Sylvester Katontoka, is expected to enhance coordination of disability programmes, monitor the implementation of disability-related policies and legislation, and promote mainstreaming of disability issues across all sectors.
Meanwhile, the NTFPD board led by Ms. Sally Simuyambala has been tasked with ensuring efficient, equitable and sustainable delivery of rehabilitation, skills development and empowerment services for persons with disabilities.
The newly appointed board members have been urged to discharge their duties with integrity, professionalism and dedication to public service.
They are also expected to uphold transparency and accountability, and to work within the legal frameworks governing their institutions, including the Persons with Disabilities Act.
The Minister reaffirmed Government’s commitment to advancing disability inclusion in line with the national development agenda and international obligations, including the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
“You are expected to discharge your duties with integrity, professionalism and dedication to public service. I urge you to familiarise yourselves with the legal frameworks governing your institutions, including the Persons with Disabilities Act and other relevant statutes, and to work closely with management while respecting the distinct roles of governance and administration,” she said.
She assured the boards of Government’s support and encouraged them to collaborate with stakeholders such as cooperating partners, civil society and organisations of and for persons with disabilities to achieve shared objectives.
