Antony Chawagarira
MASVINGO – Masvingo Province is ready to host the 2026 National Disability Expo, with final preparations now complete ahead of the three-day national event scheduled to run from today until Friday at Mucheke Stadium.
The annual expo, organised by the Department of Disability Affairs in the Office of the President and Cabinet, is expected to bring together persons with disabilities, Government ministries, development partners, private sector organisations, educational institutions and community groups from across Zimbabwe.
Held under the theme, “Embracing Disability Inclusion in All Sectors: A Master Stroke for National Prosperity and Economic Development,” the expo seeks to advance disability mainstreaming and showcase the contributions of persons with disabilities towards national development.
The event comes at a time when Zimbabwe continues to strengthen efforts to promote equal opportunities, accessibility and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities in line with the country’s inclusive development agenda.
Minister of State for Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, is expected to officially open the expo alongside the President’s Special Advisor on National Disability Issues, Ms Rossy Mpofu.President Emmerson Mnangagwa is scheduled to lead the Zimbabwe National Disability Expo 2026.
Exhibitors from various sectors are expected to showcase innovations, assistive technologies, entrepreneurship initiatives and skills development programmes designed to improve the lives and livelihoods of persons with disabilities.
As part of preparations for the expo, significant rehabilitation works have been undertaken at Jairos Jiri Home in Masvingo. The institution has received extensive upgrades aimed at improving living conditions and enhancing opportunities for residents through sustainable empowerment projects.
Officials say the improvements at the facility reflect Government’s broader commitment to creating an enabling environment where persons with disabilities can realise their full potential and actively participate in economic and social development.
Beyond exhibitions, the expo will provide a platform for dialogue on disability rights, inclusion, access to services and strategies for removing barriers that continue to hinder full participation in society.
The gathering is also expected to celebrate success stories from across the country, highlighting achievements by persons with disabilities in business, education, sport, agriculture and other sectors.
With delegates expected from all provinces, the National Disability Expo is anticipated to boost local economic activity while reinforcing Zimbabwe’s commitment to building an inclusive society where every citizen has the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national prosperity.
Members of the public have been encouraged to attend the event and witness the diverse talents, innovations and achievements of persons with disabilities as the nation continues its journey towards leaving no one and no place behind.
