Harare, (New Ziana) – The private sector has been urged to champion disability inclusion by adopting inclusive employment practices and investing in accessible infrastructure and services.
Minister of Public Services, Labour, and Social Welfare, Edgar Moyo, made the call during the official launch of the Costed Action Plan for the Implementation of the National Disability Policy (2024-2028) in Harare on Thursday.
Describing the event as a historic milestone, Minister Moyo emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to promoting inclusiveness, accessibility, and empowerment for persons with disabilities in Zimbabwe.
The Costed Action Plan (2024-2028) serves as a comprehensive blueprint for translating the aspirations of the National Disability Policy into concrete, measurable actions.
It also provides a structured framework to guide all stakeholders—including government agencies, private sector players, development partners, and civil society—toward a coordinated and well-funded implementation process.
The plan outlines strategic interventions to address key barriers faced by persons with disabilities, including access to education, healthcare, employment, and social protection.
“To the private sector—we urge you to embrace disability inclusion by adopting inclusive employment practices and investing in accessible infrastructure and services.
“I am pleased that some organizations are already being trained to mainstream disability into their recruitment and employment processes. A small step toward inclusion in the workplace is a giant leap toward a more equitable society, ” Minister Moyo said.
He highlighted the significant strides made by the government under President Mnangagwa’s leadership in advancing disability rights.
“The launch of the National Disability Policy in 2021 was a landmark achievement, setting a strong foundation for a rights-based approach to disability inclusion across all spheres of society. However, policy alone is not enough—it must be effectively implemented and adequately resourced. “This is precisely why today’s launch of the Costed Action Plan is so crucial,” he said.
The plan establishes clear timelines and responsibilities for government ministries and other stakeholders, ensuring that disability inclusion is mainstreamed across all development sectors rather than treated as an afterthought.
It also includes a financing strategy to mobilize the necessary resources for implementation, reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustainable and impactful change.
“The Government of Zimbabwe remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that no one and no place is left behind in our development agenda. Through this Costed Action Plan, we are reinforcing our pledge to create an inclusive society where persons with disabilities can fully exercise their rights, access opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to national development,” said Minister Moyo.
He emphasized that the success of the plan depends on collective action and a whole-of-society approach.
“Government alone cannot achieve the desired transformation. We need the full participation of all stakeholders. To development partners, ambassadors, and donors—we appreciate your unwavering support and call upon you to align your funding and programs with this action plan to maximize impact. This plan sets clear goals and targets from which you can pick your area of interest to fund,” he said.
He assured stakeholders that his Ministry would take an active role in monitoring and evaluating the progress of the plan, ensuring accountability and transparency in its implementation.
The launch of the Costed Action Plan marks a pivotal moment in the country’s journey towards disability inclusion, signaling a renewed commitment to breaking down barriers and creating a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.
