MARTIN MAWAYA
GWERU-As the world grapples with the escalating impacts of climate change, the inclusion and enhanced participation of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in climate change adaptation and mitigation discussions are crucial for sustainable development.
The conversation around climate change in Zimbabwe is evolving, yet the representation of PWDs remains alarmingly inadequate.
PWDs face unique challenges that often leave them marginalized in climate change efforts.
However, Zimbabwe can effectively mainstream the inclusion of PWDs in these crucial dialogues by identifying specific areas for engagement and addressing existing policy gaps.
To foster genuine inclusivity, the country must adopt a multi-faceted approach emphasizing accessibility, representation, and awareness, said Senator Annah Shiri, a representative of the disability sector in the Upper House.
Shiri, who also serves as the president of the National Council of Persons with Disabilities in Zimbabwe (NCDPZ), called for inclusive decision-making processes and disability-inclusive policies to address the specific needs of PWDs in the face of climate change.
“Accessible infrastructure, such as public halls, evacuation centers, and clinics, are essential to ensure that PWDs can actively participate in climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts,” Shiri said.
“We must also encourage the active involvement of PWDs in decision-making processes related to climate change, ensuring that their diverse needs and sections are represented.”
Shiri further called for capacity-building programs to enhance the resilience of PWDs to climate change impacts.
“Many PWDs are not sensitized to the effects of climate change, and we need to reach out to more of them through training and education,” she explained.
Gweru-based disability advocate Nigel Tahwa highlighted the importance of mainstreaming PWDs in climate change discussions.
He emphasized the need for a national disability and climate change policy, accessible platforms for PWD participation, and disability-sensitive climate change research and data collection.
“Zimbabwe can effectively mainstream PWD inclusion by creating accessible platforms for their participation, conducting disability-sensitive climate change research, and building partnerships with disability organizations and networks,” Tahwa said.
According to the Zimbabwe 2022 population and housing census report, the country has an estimated 9.5% prevalence rate of disability, with approximately 1.2 million PWDs in the country.
These individuals face disproportionate challenges in the face of climate change, including limited access to such information, inadequate disaster preparedness, and pre-existing health conditions that can be exacerbated by climate change.
To address these vulnerabilities, Tahwa suggested that Zimbabwe implement accessible early warning systems, inclusive agricultural programs, disability-friendly infrastructure, and climate-resilient water and sanitation facilities.
“Establishing local climate adaptation projects that specifically involve PWDs is vital. This can foster direct engagement with climate adaptation efforts, allowing PWDs to play a proactive role,” said Tahwa.
He also called for the development of a National Disability and Climate Change Policy to provide a comprehensive framework for addressing the needs of PWDs.
By prioritizing the inclusion of PWDs in climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts, Zimbabwe can ensure that its sustainable development initiatives are truly inclusive and leave no one behind, added Tahwa.
