People in Sitezi Village, Ward 7, Gwanda Rural, came together this past week to talk openly about disability and inclusion.

The NKomwa Foundation Trust (NFT), working with other partners, held a Disability Awareness Campaign in the village.

At least about 80 community members attended.
The meeting was led by the office of the district development coordinator.

This was the first time for a number of residents to discuss disability issues openly in a public meeting.

The talks focused on simple but important topics such as :what disability means, the different types of disabilities, the laws that protect Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), and the right words to use.

Participants were encouraged to say “Persons with Disabilities” instead of “disabled” to show respect and recognise that they are people first.

Organisers had a vision for people to accept people as they are instead of viewing them as a curse or a problem.

The group also talked about the challenges PWDs face every day. These include buildings that are hard to access, unfair treatment in schools and markets, and fewer chances to work and earn a living.

Traditional leaders, the Ward Councillor, and PWDs sat together and listened to each other’s stories.

For some, it was the first time their experiences were shared and heard without shame.

The event had strong support from other organisations.

Representatives from World Vision International, the Women Development Association in Zimbabwe, and Masakhaneni Project Trust joined NFT.

This showed that both local and international partners are working together to make inclusion real, not just an idea on paper.

NFT (Nloma Foundation Trust) has been speaking up for disability rights in Matabeleland South for some time. After the meeting, the foundation said in a press statement,that they have been working hand in hand with communities in educating people about disabilities.

“Through these programs, NFT promotes inclusion, dignity, and equal chances for Persons with Disabilities.

“We also encourage communities to challenge stigma and create spaces where everyone can take part.”

The presence of traditional leaders and the Ward Councillor was important.

In rural areas, chiefs and councillors influence how people think and act. Their involvement means the message of inclusion is starting to reach the heart of village life.

For NFT and its partners, this is just one step. They plan to hold similar meetings in other parts of Gwanda Rural so that inclusion becomes part of everyday community life.