ZAPD – Zambia Agency For Persons with Disabilities

ZAPD Observes 14th Global Accesibility Awareness Day

Today, May 15, 2025, marks the 14th Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD). As the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), we proudly join the global community in commemorating this important day dedicated to raising awareness on the critical importance of digital access, inclusive design, and equitable opportunities for persons with disabilities. This day comes with a challenge to all of us, governments, developers, designers, service providers, and the general public to think, talk, and take action to ensure that no one is left behind in our increasingly digital world. We recognize and appreciate the Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services (MCDSS) for its continued commitment to accessibility. Notably, the issuance of Cabinet Memo Number 30 on Accessibility, is a major milestone in aligning national development efforts with the rights and needs of persons with disabilities. We also extend our gratitude to all our cooperating partners, including development agencies and civil society organizations, for their valuable support in the development of the Draft National Accessibility Standards. These standards are key to strengthening the enforcement of the Persons with Disabilities Act No. 6 of 2012, and ensuring that both the built and digital environments are accessible to all. As we observe GAAD 2025, we call upon all stakeholders, both public and private, to prioritize inclusive design features across infrastructure, services, digital platforms, and communication systems. True inclusion is only possible when accessibility is embedded at the core of planning, policy, and practice.

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Addressing Systemic Challenges Faced by Persons with Albinism in Zambia

Features / ZAPD

Persons with albinism in Zambia continue to face deeply rooted systemic challenges stemming from widespread misinformation and stigma. Far too often, they are subjected to violence and discrimination simply because their condition remains profoundly misunderstood. This misunderstanding fosters a dangerous environment for those with albinism. A significant contributor to this situation is the persistence of myths and ignorance surrounding albinism. One of the most alarming beliefs is that the body parts of persons with albinism possess magical properties and can be used in charms and rituals. Such harmful superstitions have contributed to horrific acts of violence, including murder and mutilation. The problem is further compounded by gaps in legal frameworks and weak support systems, which leave persons with albinism vulnerable and without adequate protection. In response to these challenges, Cheshire Homes Society of Zambia, in partnership with the Africa Albinism Network, Liliane Fonds, and other collaborators, last year launched the “Out of the Shadows for Good: An End to Murder, Mutilation, and Exclusion of Children and Adults with Albinism in Zambia” project. This three-year initiative, which began in June 2024 and will run until 2027, is being implemented in the Northern, Luapula, Muchinga, and Eastern provinces. It seeks to address critical issues such as murder, mutilation, stigma, and discrimination by tackling the root causes of exclusion. As part of the project, the organizations have convened a two-day workshop aimed at sharing experiences, identifying challenges and opportunities, reviewing the current situation, and formulating actionable recommendations with regards access to justice for for persons with albinism. Speaking at the opening of the workshop, Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) Director General, Mr. Frankson Musukwa, emphasized the need for a comprehensive legal framework that promotes awareness and education. He stressed that dismantling harmful beliefs and practices associated with albinism is essential to ending discrimination and violence. Mr. Musukwa further called for the development of support services to empower persons with albinism and improve their quality of life. He also highlighted the importance of enhancing access to justice and implementing robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure accountability for human rights violations. He concluded by noting that the fight for justice and equality is not the responsibility of a select few, but a collective effort that requires broad societal engagement. Meanwhile, Mr. Kamina Ng’uni of Cheshire Homes Society of Zambia reiterated the organization’s commitment to improving the justice system for persons with albinism. He explained that through collaborative projects, they are building capacity, raising awareness, and fostering a society where persons with albinism can live free from violence, stigma, and discrimination, a society that values diversity, promotes inclusion, and upholds human rights.

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“Disability-Led Coalition Launches 5-Year CADiR Program to Champion Inclusive Development in Zambia, Backed by NORAD”

General / ZAPD

A group of organizations led by, and for persons with disabilities, with support from the Norwegian Government (NORAD), has launched a powerful 5-year program called Collective Action for Disability Rights (CADiR). The program seeks to promote equal participation of persons with disabilities across sectors such as education, health, economic empowerment, human rights advocacy, and climate change response. Speaking at the launch, Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Doreen Mwamba, commended the Norwegian Government for its continued support and stressed the importance of inclusive development. She announced that government will allocate at least 15% of the social and humanitarian response budget to disability inclusion, and finalize legal instruments to support accessibility in education, health, and employment. The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) and other key stakeholders welcomed the initiative, calling it a practical model for unity and impact. The program is expected to strengthen collaboration among organizations of persons with disabilities, reduce duplication of efforts, and ensure that disability inclusion becomes central to national development.

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Government to Distribute Assistive Devices Worth Over K2 Million

General / ZAPD

Lusaka, Zambia – The government is set to distribute assistive devices worth over K2 million to all provinces, Minister of Community Development and Social Services Doreen Mwamba has announced. Speaking during the donation of pediatric wheelchairs to children with disabilities at Bauleni Special Needs School, Ms. Mwamba said the procurement process is already underway, with more consignments expected from international partners in the coming months. “A shipment from the Baptist Church is expected to arrive in June, followed by a forty-foot container from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in September. These devices will be distributed before the end of the year,” she said. The minister reiterated government’s commitment to promoting equal access and opportunities for persons with disabilities. “We are working closely with the Ministry of Infrastructure to ensure that public buildings become accessible to persons using wheelchairs and others with mobility challenges,” she said. Ms. Mwamba thanked cooperating partners for their continued support, noting that the donated devices will enhance mobility, promote independence, and empower children with disabilities to pursue their dreams. She added that assistive devices like the ones donated to Bauleni Special Needs School play a critical role in enabling access to education and reducing the number of children who lack such tools. The minister also commended teachers at the school for their dedication. “Every child deserves equal access to services, opportunities, and a chance to thrive,” she said, affirming government’s commitment to inclusivity in education, health, and social participation. In a related development, Ms. Mwamba directed the Department of Social Welfare to consider including mothers who care for children with disabilities in the next cycle of Social Protection programs, such as the Social Cash Transfer. Meanwhile, Sister Yvonne Mwalula of the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary expressed gratitude to the government and stakeholders, pledging continued support to create a nurturing learning environment. Bauleni pupil Emmanuel Zimba shared his excitement and appreciation for the support the school is receiving, calling it a sign of hope for children with disabilities.

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ZAPD Applauds Kalumbila Town Council for Inclusive Development

Press Releases/Statements / ZAPD

We commend Kalumbila Town Council for their outstanding efforts in promoting disability inclusion. Using local revenue and CDF resources, the Council has made public facilities more accessible like the Council office with a ramp and elevator, and the new National Assembly Office with accessible toilets. They’ve also procured 25 wheelchairs to support mobility and independence for persons with disabilities and are empowering them economically by reserving CDF contracts specifically for them. This is a shining example of inclusive leadership, and we encourage other local authorities to follow suit! — Frankson Musukwa Director General Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities

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Breaking Barriers: Tricycles Bring New Hope to Children with Disabilities in Lufwanyama

Stories of change #Disabilityregistration

ZAMBIA ENDORSES AMMAN -BERLIN DECLARATION ON DISABILITY INCLUSION

General / ZAPD

The Zambian government has endorsed the Amman-Berlin declaration on disability inclusion with a reaffirmation to amplify the voices of persons with disabilities in national development. The Amman – Berlin Declaration calls upon nations to uphold the principle of 15 percent of all international development programs implemented at the national level actively pursue disability inclusion as an objective. The endorsement was made at the 3rd Global Disability Summit (GDS) currently taking place in Berlin, Germany, with the Zambian delegation being led by, Ambassador Mrs. Winnie Natala Chibesakunda, who is accompanied by, among others, Ministry of Community Development and Social Services director for Social Welfare, Mr Nelson Nyangu. Zambia has therefore presented its national position on the progressive strides made towards disability inclusion and has submitted its 2025 commitments on disability inclusion, all of which are designed to ensure that persons with disabilities lead dignified and inclusive lives. Ambassador Chibesakunda and the Zambian delegation also participated in a high-level meeting of the Global Disability Fund, where countries shared perspectives on the importance of ensuring that development initiatives under the fund directly impact persons with disabilities while amplifying their voices in decision-making processes. The Global Disability Summit serves as a unique global platform aimed at improving the lives of persons with disabilities while bridging the gap between disability inclusion and international development cooperation. Ambassador Chibesakunda has since reiterated Zambia’s commitment to fostering an inclusive society where the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities are safeguarded and promoted at all levels of national development. No insights to show Boost a post All reactions: 1919

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ZAPD Coordinator Leads Disability Inclusion Efforts at Transformative Training in Mbala

General / ZAPD

Mbala District, March 31st, 2025 — the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) recently participated in a five-day ‘Transformed Disability for Leaders’ training program, held in Mbala District from March 24-28, 2025. The program, which aimed to enhance leaders’ understanding of disability inclusion through a biblical lens, provided valuable insights on how to better integrate persons with disabilities into all sectors of society. Facilitated by esteemed leaders, including Pastor Peter Chila, the training emphasized the importance of inclusion and the need to recognize the value of persons with disabilities in every aspect of community life. ZAPD Northern Province Coordinator Jane Mulenga, alongside other local leaders, gained crucial knowledge and skills that will help further the mission of the Agency in the area. Ms. Mulenga said the training was an enriching experience, not only for personal growth but also for the development of the community’s efforts towards disability inclusion. She added that the training has equipped participants with the tools they need to advocate for the empowerment of persons with disabilities and ensure their integration into all facets of life, from education to employment. During her visit, the coordinator also took the opportunity to visit 19 children from Mbala and Mpulungu districts who were undergoing corrective surgeries, including clubfoot treatments, at Mbala General Hospital. These children, supported by church leaders from Operational Mobilization- Zambia’s Mpulungu branch, are receiving essential medical care that will improve their mobility and quality of life. Operation Mobilization-Zambia has been instrumental in supplementing government efforts by providing support to children with disabilities, demonstrating a strong commitment to inclusion and empowerment. Their work aligns with ZAPD’s mission and provides a vital resource for local communities.

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202 Teachers with disabilities recruited

Press Releases/Statements / ZAPD

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Lusaka, 21st March 2025 – The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) commends the Teaching Service Commission and the Ministry of Education for their inclusive recruitment of 4,200 teachers for the 2024 intake. Notably, 202 individuals with disabilities from our database of 285 have been successfully recruited, a significant milestone toward equitable employment. We congratulate these 202 recruits as they join the civil service and urge them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct in their roles. This recruitment underscores the government’s commitment to inclusive employment and social security for graduates with disabilities. We applaud this effort and encourage its continuation. However, we stress the urgent need for higher learning institutions to provide reasonable accommodations, including Sign Language interpreters, note-takers, Braille equipment, and accessible physical environments. These resources are crucial for students with disabilities pursuing STEM, Business Studies, and Expressive Arts courses. With the 2023 revised education curriculum prioritizing these fields, equal access is essential for independent living and job placement. Students with disabilities must not be confined to social sciences—they deserve equal opportunities to excel in all disciplines. By ensuring individualized accommodations, institutions can empower them to compete fairly in future recruitment processes. Additionally, we call on the Civil Service Commission and the Local Government Service Commission to adopt the Teaching Service Commission’s inclusive recruitment approach. We urge them to uphold the government’s commitment to reserving job opportunities for persons with disabilities in upcoming recruitments. Furthermore, we emphasize the need for future teacher recruitment processes to be disaggregated by disability type. This will enhance transparency, integrity and credibility of recruitment process devoid of mistrust among applicants with Disabilities. Data will also help government to put in place intervention that aims at removing barriers in recruitment process for persons with disabilities. Issued by: Frankson Musukwa Director General Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD)

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