“Disability is a matter of perception. If you can do just one thing well,
you’re needed by someone.” – Martina Navratilova
On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Veritas joins the global community in championing the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in Zimbabwe.
Veritas recognizes the strides made in Zimbabwe to advance disability rights, but acknowledges that barriers still exist and there is a need for more to be done to foster inclusivity of all people whatever their abilities. We are committed to fostering a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.
Promote Leadership by Persons with Disabilities
This year, the UN focuses on the crucial role of leadership by individuals with disabilities. By removing obstacles to education, employment, and political participation, we can harness their unique perspectives and drive sustainable change.
Message from the UN Special Rapporteur on the rights of persons with disabilities Heba Hagrass
“The meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in policy discussions that shape their future is not only a moral imperative but a legal obligation under the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Their voices must be heard if we are to make concrete progress toward achieving the 2030 Agenda for the rights of 1.3 billion persons with disabilities around the world”.
The Zimbabwean Constitution
The Constitution of Zimbabwe guarantees the rights of persons with disabilities, including the right to equality and non-discrimination in section 56. Despite these constitutional provisions, the full realization of these rights remains elusive due to persistent challenges such as poverty, stigma, and inadequate legal framework. According to ZimStat, about 9.5% of Zimbabweans – or 1.4 million – people are classified as persons with disabilities. Despite constitutional guarantees, many face barriers to realizing their human rights, including access to education, health care, and employment.
The New Persons with Disabilities Bill
The Persons with Disabilities Bill was gazetted on 9 February 2024 and is still before the National Assembly. The Bill aims to replace the outdated Disabled Persons Act which was enacted in 1992. The new Bill seeks to align Zimbabwe’s legal framework with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, promote accessibility and protect the rights of individuals with disabilities in various areas, including education, employment and healthcare.
The Bill is a step in the right direction, but it requires further work to fully realize its potential to improve the lives of persons with disabilities by protecting, promoting, and ensuring their human rights. The Bill should be strengthened as it passes through Parliament to better serve the needs of persons with disabilities. The Bill is available on the Veritas website [link] and a comprehensive analysis of the Bill, identifying areas for improvement, is also accessible on the Veritas website [link]
Conclusion
As we commemorate this day, let us reaffirm our commitment to a just and inclusive Zimbabwe, as enshrined in our Constitution. Let us honour the contributions of individuals with disabilities and strive to create a world where their voices are heard and their potential is realized. Veritas urges the Government to swiftly improve and enact the Persons with Disabilities Bill and develop effective tools to ensure its implementation.
