Zambian Gov’t Launches Key Disability Reports to Promote Inclusion
The Zambian government, through the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services and with support from cooperating partners, has launched three critical national reports aimed at improving the welfare of persons with disabilities.
The reports include the Study Report on Albinism and Rights in Zambia, the Country Report on the Situation Analysis of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the Assistive Technology Assessment Report.
Speaking at the launch, Permanent Secretary Ms Angela Kawandami emphasised that disability inclusion is a matter of rights, dignity, and social justice, not charity. She stressed that persons with disabilities must be recognised as equal citizens, with their voices, skills, and potential fully integrated into national development.
Ms Kawandami highlighted that the launch coincides with the implementation of the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP), which prioritises inclusivity, equity, and human development.
She reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening policy frameworks, improving service delivery, promoting access to assistive technologies, and ensuring meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making.
United Nations Resident Coordinator Mr Najmdimi Bilal commended Zambia’s progress on disability inclusion but noted that gaps in service delivery persist. He called for collective efforts to implement the reports’ recommendations to further improve the lives of persons with disabilities.
In a vote of thanks, Carol Kapungwe praised the government for creating an enabling environment for persons with disabilities to engage in socio-economic activities and expressed hope that the newly launched reports would enhance their welfare.
