FAITH NDOU
MASVINGO- Preparations for the 2026 Disability Expo are at an advanced stage with organisers confirming that key infrastructure is nearing completion ahead of the national event set for June 24 to June 26 at Mucheke Stadium.
Chairperson of the Disability Expo, Charles Mugwamba said accessibility remains a top priority with ablution facilities designed to accommodate persons with disabilities already in place while sports and recreational courts are now 90 percent complete.
“Everything is going well and we are expecting about 500 exhibitors from across the country,” said Mugwamba.
Mugwamba, a farmer from Ward 11 in Gutu district under Chief Nyamande, expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting how such platforms continue to uplift persons with disabilities.
He is a beneficiary of the Presidential empowerment programme, through which he received a Honda Fit vehicle to improve mobility.
Mugwamba also benefited from the 2024 Disability Expo through a pig pass-on project.
Mugwamba, who last year won the Legacy TV Disability Champion Award added that his office has been advocating for improved living conditions for persons with disabilities. This has resulted in the allocation of nearly 15 residential stands through Gutu Rural District Council.
Meanwhile, Moses Chitombo, a Leatherworks Director from Mucheke in Masvingo, also welcomed the upcoming expo describing it as a vital platform for empowerment and economic growth.
“I feel happy about the Disability Expo. It brings together persons with disabilities and able-bodied people from across the country. It gives us an opportunity to showcase our work, generate income, and connect with potential buyers,” said Chitombo.
Chitombo specialises in handmade leather products including formal and school shoes, safety boots, orthopedic footwear for people with walking disabilities as well as belts, wallets, handbags, sandals, hats and caps.
“This is our time to shine as Masvingo Province and to add value to the work we are doing,” he said.
The Disability Expo is a national event aimed at promoting inclusion, innovation and economic participation among persons with disabilities.
It brings together persons with disabilities from across the country and beyond, providing a platform to exhibit and showcase their work in line with the mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.
