The United Nations in Zimbabwe has pledged to deepen its collaboration with Government, Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and civil society to advance disability rights and ensure inclusive development across all sectors.
The commitment was made yesterday as the country joined the global community in commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) under the theme “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.”
In a statement the UN said disability inclusion remains central to its work in Zimbabwe, emphasising that progress can only be achieved through strong and coordinated partnerships.
“On this #IDPD2025 we commit to strengthening partnerships with the Government, OPDs and civil society in advancing disability rights and inclusion across all spheres and ensuring disability inclusion in all UN-supported programmes,” the organisation said.
UN also said it will continue supporting national efforts to build systems, policies and institutions that promote equal participation for persons with disabilities.
“We proudly join the global community in commemorating the International Day of Persons with Disabilities under the global theme: fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.
The United Nations in Zimbabwe remains committed to ensuring that no one is left behind, including persons with disabilities whose voices and contributions are essential to national development,” UN added.
UN noted that persons with disabilities continue to face barriers in education, employment, health care, infrastructure and social protection despite existing policies. He said addressing these challenges requires collaborative action and sustained investment.
We must work together to dismantle the obstacles that prevent full participation.
“This day reminds us that inclusion is not an event but a continuous effort that demands policy alignment, adequate resourcing and the meaningful involvement of persons with disabilities in decision-making,” it said
The UN also acknowledged the leadership of OPDs in championing disability rights and called for their greater participation in planning and implementing development programmes.
The organisation said its agencies are integrating disability perspectives into all ongoing and future interventions, in line with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Sustainable Development Goals.
As Zimbabwe marks IDPD 2025, the UN urged all stakeholders to recommit to building a society where every person regardless of disability can participate fully, realise their potential and contribute to national progress.
