Zambia Launches CADIR Project to Champion Disability Inclusion and Empowerment
The Zambian Government has officially launched the Collective Action for Disability Rights (CADIR) project, reaffirming its commitment to the full inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities across all areas of national development.
The five-year initiative, backed by the Norwegian Association of Disabled (NAD) and other Norwegian partners, seeks to eliminate systemic barriers and promote inclusive development, ensuring equal rights, opportunities, and dignity for persons with disabilities.
Speaking at the launch, Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Hon. Doreen Mwamba, stressed that inclusion is both a human rights issue and a cornerstone of sustainable development.
She announced government plans to ratify the African Disability Protocol by 2027 and finalize a National Action Plan to protect persons with albinism, in alignment with the African Union’s continental strategy.
“This project directly responds to climate and social challenges by fostering community-based inclusive development,” said Minister Mwamba. “It aligns with our newly launched National Disability Policy, ensuring no one is left behind.”
The CADIR project has also drawn praise for integrating disability inclusion in climate action — a priority made more urgent by Zambia’s recent experiences with severe droughts. The initiative emphasizes inclusive strategies that ensure vulnerable populations are not excluded from climate adaptation efforts.
NAD Country Director, Ms. Caroline Cheelo, welcomed the government’s commitment, pointing to global figures indicating that 1.3 billion people — 16% of the world’s population — live with significant disabilities.
“This programme represents a collective vision to break down barriers in education, employment, healthcare, and civic participation,” Cheelo said.
In a message delivered on behalf of Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) Director General Mr. Frank Musukwa, Director of Planning and Programmes Ms. Inger Mutenekwa applauded the CADIR project’s thematic alignment with inclusive climate resilience.
The CADIR project is expected to significantly advance Zambia’s disability rights agenda, driving inclusive policies and practices across sectors.
