The Ministry of Community Development and Social Services Permanent Secretary, Ms. Angela Kawandami, has urged the new ZAPD Board to lead with selfless service, sacrifice, and stewardship as they take on the responsibility of advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.
The call was made in a speech delivered on her behalf by Director Social Welfare, Mr. Morris Moono, during the official opening of the induction meeting for the Board.
In her message, Ms. Kawandami emphasized that the induction is not merely a procedural requirement, but a critical foundation for effective governance, accountability, and service delivery.
She stressed that strong leadership begins with a shared understanding of roles, transparency, and collective decision-making.
“Effective governance begins with a shared understanding,” the statement noted, encouraging Board Members to actively engage, collaborate, and provide forward-looking strategic guidance.
The induction equipped Board Members with key insights into:
ZAPD’s mandate and operations
Governance and institutional structures
The legal and policy framework
Their role in strengthening service delivery.
Speaking at the close of the induction, ZAPD Board Chairperson, Mr. Silvestor Katontoka, reflected on the importance of the training and the responsibility ahead.
“The knowledge shared today has not only deepened our understanding of corporate governance, but has also reaffirmed the solemn responsibility that comes with serving on the ZAPD Board,” he said.
“We have been reminded that our role is not about personal gain or allowances, but about commitment to the institution and to the persons with disabilities whom we serve,” said the board chair.
Mr. Katontoka further highlighted the Board’s commitment to leaving a lasting impact.
“The decisions we make today must strengthen ZAPD for generations to come and improve the lives of persons with disabilities across Zambia,” he said.
He also expressed sincere appreciation to the facilitators and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the induction, and called on fellow Board Members to uphold the highest standards of governance with integrity, unity, and purpose.