Getting help for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is already difficult for many survivors in remote areas but the challenge is even greater for persons with disabilities.
This reality has driven a new push for inclusivity in GBV services, led by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Zimbabwe in collaboration with government ministries and local stakeholders in Mashonaland Central Province.
The meeting, which brought together key actors including the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), local Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), District leaders, and Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), focused on strengthening coordination and accessibility of GBV response services for people with disabilities.
Speaking during the engagement, a UNFPA representative said the initiative was about ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against gender-based violence.
“It’s tough enough getting help for GBV in remote areas. Imagine how much harder it is when you’re a person with a disability.
“That’s why we brought together ministries, local CSO groups, police, district leaders, and organisations of people with disabilities to make sure our services are inclusive and accessible,” the representative added
Participants agreed that true inclusion goes beyond creating new structures, but involves improving the everyday systems that already exist.
“Being inclusive is about making the everyday services we already have easy to reach, welcoming, and designed with persons with disabilities in mind,” one participant said, highlighting the importance of training service providers to better understand the needs of people with disabilities.
The discussions also emphasised the need for infrastructure adjustments, such as accessible reporting offices and shelters, as well as inclusive communication methods like sign language interpretation and information in braille.
Local leaders in attendance commended the collaborative approach, noting that the fight against GBV can only be effective if all vulnerable groups are considered. They pledged to continue working closely with partners to ensure that communities are equipped to respond effectively to GBV cases involving persons with disabilities.
The initiative forms part of broader national efforts to eliminate gender-based violence and promote equal access to justice and support services, in line with Zimbabwe’s commitments under the National GBV Strategy and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
By prioritising inclusion, stakeholders in Mashonaland Central are setting an example for how local communities can make safety and justice a reality for everyone.
