ZAPD Commends Gov’t for Advancing Disability Inclusion and Empowerment
The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) has lauded the government for its continued commitment to promoting inclusion and empowering persons with disabilities across the country.
In a statement, ZAPD Director General Frankson Musukwa commended President Hakainde Hichilema for his steadfast dedication to advancing the disability inclusion agenda and ensuring that persons with disabilities are active contributors to national development.
“We particularly commend His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema, for his commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are active participants in national development,” said Mr Musukwa.
He highlighted the recent disbursement of K2 million to various disability groups and cooperatives as a clear demonstration of the government’s determination to promote inclusive growth and economic participation.
Mr Musukwa urged beneficiaries of the empowerment funds to utilise the resources responsibly, emphasising that the initiative is designed to create sustainable income opportunities.
“These funds are loans meant to empower and generate sustainable income. Any misuse will not be tolerated, and those found in breach will be held accountable. Timely repayment will ensure that more persons with disabilities benefit from this revolving initiative,” he stated.
ZAPD also praised the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) for including more than 100 persons with disabilities in ongoing electoral activities nationwide, saying the move promotes inclusive participation in democratic processes.
Additionally, Mr Musukwa congratulated the Teaching Service Commission and the Ministry of Education for recruiting over 60 qualified teachers with disabilities during the ongoing replacement exercise.
“We appreciate the prioritisation of inclusivity in the recruitment process and call upon the newly employed teachers to uphold professionalism and adhere to the teaching code of ethics,” he said.
Reaffirming ZAPD’s commitment to collaboration, Mr Musukwa said the agency will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure that the rights and concerns of persons with disabilities are integrated into all aspects of national development.
“True national development can only be achieved when all sectors of society actively participate in building an inclusive Zambia,” he emphasised, calling on the private sector to emulate the government by creating accessible workplaces and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
ZAPD, a statutory body, is mandated to coordinate and promote disability-related programmes in line with the national vision of “Leaving No One Behind”, consistent with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
