The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) and the
National Disability Council of Namibia (NDCN) have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cooperation and advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in the two countries.
The landmark agreement, signed in Lusaka, marks a significant milestone in regional collaboration on disability affairs and reflects the shared commitment of Zambia and Namibia to building inclusive societies where persons with disabilities can fully participate and thrive.
The MoU provides a framework for cooperation in key areas including disability management information systems, institutional capacity building, accessibility, assistive technology, research, policy development, education and training, healthcare, and the exchange of technical expertise.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, ZAPD Director General Mr. Frankson Musukwa described the agreement as the beginning of a new chapter of collaboration that will facilitate knowledge sharing, joint research, technical cooperation, and the strengthening of systems that support the inclusion and empowerment of persons with disabilities.
And ZAPD Interim Board Chairperson Mr. Morden Mayembe emphasized that the partnership goes beyond the signing of a document and represents a commitment to action, innovation, and measurable progress.
Mr. Mayembe noted that through collaboration, both institutions would work towards ensuring that no person with a disability is left behind.
National Disability Council of Namibia Chief Executive Officer Ms. Angelique Philander highlighted the strong historical ties between Zambia and Namibia and underscored the importance of regional cooperation in promoting disability rights.
She stated that the partnership would provide opportunities for both institutions to learn from one another, strengthen disability governance, and improve service delivery for persons with disabilities.
The MoU follows a series of engagements between the two institutions, including discussions on disability management information systems and the exchange of best practices in disability programming.
A Joint Committee will be established to oversee the implementation of the agreement and ensure that the partnership delivers tangible benefits for persons with disabilities in both countries.
The signing of the MoU reaffirms the commitment of Zambia and Namibia to the principles of inclusion, equality, and human rights, while contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the African Union’s Agenda.
National Disability Council of Namibia
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