NFT Advocacy officer, Norman Mudadisi, addresses Lote villagers in Gwanda South
By Nontobeko Sibanda
GWANDA SOUTH – SCORES of villagers from Lote in Gwanda South were recently part of an interface dialogue that was aimed at increasing participation of People with Disabilities (PWDs) in decision-making processes, through engaging their local leadership.
Nkomwa Foundation Trust (NFT), a local non-governmental organisation that caters for needs of the disabled, organised the event that was graced by ward Councillors, Government ministry representatives, business community, traditional leaders and religious leaders.
Ward 18 disability facilitator Progress Ndlovu told the gathering that the day presented a chance for the disabled to air challenges they face in communities in the presence of their local leaders.
“This day is meant to take pride in the disabilities that we have as they are a gift from God, and also it gives us space to vent out the challenges encountered by people with disabilities,” she said.
NFT Advocacy officer, Norman Mudadisi, unpacked the national disability policy during the programme, explaining in detail and emphasising more on the consequences of breaching the policy.
NFT Director, Pick Nkomwa, urged people with disabilities to continue engaging with their leadership as mutual understanding would ensure betterment of their lives.
“PWDs can be forgotten and their needs neglected. The assumption of one-size-fits all approach is not necessarily true. Meaningful engagement is key to developing home- grown solutions that are universally effective. I am humbled by the support of Ward 18 community leadership to persons with disabilities.”
“I urge all people with disabilities to be strong and keep on engaging with the leadership for the betterment of your lives,” he said.
Ward Councillor Mphathiswa Ncube, praised NFT for facilitating engagement between PWD’s and the local leadership as several concerns were being noted and acted upon.
“I am very humbled by this engagement between PWDs and the leadership of this ward. As the Ward Councillor in liaison with other leaders, I have taken note of the issues raised. We will continue engaging relevant stakeholders and do not hesitate to keep on sharing what you think can be of benefit. Great thanks to NFT team for the splendid job,” said the Councillor.
During the course of the programme important issues raised included urging people desist from using language that denigrates or violence towards PWDs, inaccessible infrastructure, non-recognition of PWDs at family and community level, and lack of special classroom blocks for learners with disabilities, among other issues.
