Gwanda man defies disability
Gwanda man defies disability
October 11, 2022
Nontobeko Sibanda
Choice News Africa
Gwanda– Ishmael Msimanga (32) a father of two with disability after being involved in a car accident in 2017, has proved beyond doubt that, disability is not inability, as witnessed by the way he hustles to put food on the table for his family.
He did not tire from hustling, he then resorted to vending to earn a living which has served as an inspiration to many.
The accident caused spine injury and fracture frima which now forces him to use a wheel chair, for his mobility. He initially faced societal challenges like discrimination and being looked down upon, but he managed to overcome and moved on with life.
He sells fast foods and airtime which enables him to put food on the table and also educating his children from the vending proceeds.
Msimanga told Choice News Africa of his gratitude to the church and also his late mother for the support they gave to him. He said that his disability is never a limitation to his daily life activities.
“I am just a wheelchair user, a limitation to my mobility unlike before, however I am capable of finding ways of survival for myself and family.” he said.
He always encourages other people with disabilities to remain determined in everything that they do and adjust to the new way of life.
Mr Pick Nkomwa the Director for Nkomwa Foundation Trust weighed in with words of empowerment, “Disability comes in different forms and at different intervals. All that is needed is for society to be on alert and ready to give support. Everyone is a potential candidate of the disability community.” He said.
Acting District Director of the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Arts and Recreation, Frank Baloyi added that as a Ministry they also give support to People with Disabilities through sports festivals. One of the festivals started on the 1st of September to the 8th of December 2022.
He also said that festivals seek to bring the significance and inclusion of people with disabilities in sports and recreation.
“Care givers must give equal people with disabilities equivalent participation in the society and also to make sure that they register them, so that they can be known by the government.” Concluded Baloyi.