Nkomwa Trust commemorates international day of persons with disabilities
Nkomwa Trust commemorates international day of persons with disabilities
December 5, 2022
By Liberty Mutamba
Choice News Africa
Gwanda – Matabeleland South based Nkomwa Foundation Trust, a non-profit organisation that caters for persons with disabilities, recently facilitated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) 2022, where a good number of communities attended.
The 2022, “Transformative solutions for inclusive development: the role of innovation in fuelling an accessible and equitable world“.
The observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) was proclaimed in 1992 by the United Nations General Assembly resolution 47/3 and it is commemorated on 3 December every year.
These commemorations are aimed at promoting an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of Persons with Disabilities. As the world commemorates the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Nkomwa Foundation Trust commemorated the day at Mzimuni community hall in Gwanda district.
The celebrations were combined with sensitisation sessions to persons with disabilities and caregivers. The commemorations was graced by traditional leaders, stakeholders from Ministry Of Health, rural district council, Home Affairs and Education.
Villagers who attended the occasion displayed great enthusiasm to drive and embrace behavioural change in the society, Ms Masuku a villager highlighted the societal norms that negatively affect people with Disabilities.
“When my daughter reached grade five I kept her indoors, fearing that she can be raped, victimized unaware that my protection was indirectly depriving her some rights and her capabilities, to date I regret and in sorrow that my daughter has lost a number of opportunities of life.
I do appreciate the knowledge I gained from Nkomwa Foundation Trust sessions. Indeed we were not equipped and felt neglected from family and community.” said Ntombenzima Masuku as she breaks into tears.
“We are touched as leaders of this community. I believe this session has opened our eyes and minds. Indeed persons with disabilities need our love, care and inclusion in everything that affect them. Thank you Nkomwa Foundation Trust team. “Said village head Bhekimuzi Moyo
The Director of Nkomwa Foundation Trust, Pick Nkomwa, applauded the villagers and stakeholders for joining the disability community in celebrating the day.
“I am humbled by the participation of everyone on this day and the zeal for inclusion in this community. A lot is happening in driving the disability agenda. However, we appeal to the Government of Zimbabwe to implement the provisions of the National Disability Policy in line with the international standards.
Disability-inclusive budgeting and adoption of the CRPD compliant legislation. Hence, the imperative to expedite the enactment of Persons with Disabilities Bill in line with current global trends.
Persons with disabilities hereby call upon everyone to embrace the promise of innovation and technology; which means closing the digital divide by expanding accessibility, inclusivity and better protection of persons with disabilities against the numerous barriers which confront them daily.” concluded Nkomwa.