The 2026 National Disability Expo held at Macheke Stadium yesterday highlighted Government efforts to expand empowerment opportunities and improve the welfare of persons with disabilities.
In an interview, the National Chairperson of the National Disability Expo 2026, Charles Mugwamba, said the Government had made significant strides in improving the welfare of persons with disabilities through programmes aimed at enhancing livelihoods and self-reliance.
Mr Mugwamba expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa for creating opportunities that have enabled persons with disabilities to actively participate in national development.
“We are grateful to His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, for the opportunities being afforded to persons with disabilities,” he said.
He noted that Government support extended to several sectors, particularly agriculture, where persons with disabilities were benefiting from targeted empowerment programmes.
“The President is supporting us in various sectors, including agriculture, where we are benefiting through agricultural inputs, equipment, and projects such as fishing and piggery,” Mr Mugwamba said.
He described the National Disability Expo as an important platform for learning, networking and accessing information that addresses the unique needs of persons with disabilities.
“The Expo is a learning opportunity where persons with disabilities have access to information specific to their diverse needs, as well as information about Government programmes that benefit them,” he said.
Speaking at the same event, Zimbabwe Electoral Commission Commissioner Dr Kudzai Shava underscored the importance of education in improving the lives of children with disabilities and promoting their full participation in society.
“Parents and guardians must ensure that children with disabilities have access to education, as it is key to their growth, development and inclusion,” Dr Shava said.
He encouraged persons with disabilities to pursue economic empowerment and entrepreneurship, saying they should aspire to become employers rather than job seekers.
“Persons with disabilities should be empowered enough to become employers themselves,” he said.
Dr Shava also called on institutions across all sectors to work with Government in advancing disability inclusion.
“I urge both the public and private sectors to support Government in all its initiatives to ensure that persons with disabilities are recognised and incorporated into all national programmes for their welfare and empowerment,” he said.
The expo showcased a range of Government programmes and empowerment initiatives designed to improve access to services, economic opportunities and information for persons with disabilities, while providing a platform for stakeholders to exchange ideas on advancing inclusion.
The National Disability Expo is an annual platform that brings together persons with disabilities, Government ministries, independent commissions, private sector organisations and development partners to promote disability rights, showcase empowerment initiatives and strengthen inclusion in line with Zimbabwe’s constitutional provisions and national development agenda.
