ZAPD

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

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Lufwanyama District is celebrating a milestone in accessibility and inclusion following the distribution of three pedal carts (tricycles) to children with disabilities. The tricycles, collected from the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) in Ndola, were officially handed over by the Lufwanyama Council Chairperson. The donation was made possible through the generosity of Mr. Augustine Kasongo, former Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary, who fulfilled a pledge he made during the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) in 2024. The impact has already been felt by families in the community. One mother, whose child now attends the newly opened special school, shared her gratitude: “This tricycle has taken a huge burden off my shoulders. I’m so grateful for the kind gesture that made this possible.” Prior to receiving the tricycle, she had been carrying her child on her back to school daily. The gesture underscores the importance of inclusive development and access to mobility for all. The community extends its heartfelt thanks to Mr. Kasongo for his continued support and commitment to uplifting lives. #AccessibilityMatters #Inclusion #ZAPD #Lufwanyama

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Stories of change #Disabilityregistration

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Smiles, gratitude, and hope! Persons with disabilities in Chipata District, Eastern Province, are celebrating the life-changing support from Government and cooperating partners — a true testament that no one should be left behind. In heartfelt interviews, beneficiaries expressed joy and appreciation for inclusive empowerment programs like the Social Cash Transfer, Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and support from the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC). Many of them are using the funds to invest in businesses such as agriculture, general supply, and other income-generating activities — proving that given the right support, disability does not mean inability. This timely support comes under the Government-UN Joint Social Protection Programme Phase II (GRZ-UNJPSP-II), bringing to life the vision of the Persons with Disabilities Act No. 6 of 2012 — which promotes equal opportunities and access to social protection for persons with disabilities. It also echoes Zambia’s commitment to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), which calls for social protection measures that empower persons with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in all aspects of life. “We feel seen. We feel valued. And above all, we feel hopeful,” shared one of the beneficiaries. Indeed, when inclusion meets action — lives change and communities thrive.

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ZAMBIA ENDORSES AMMAN -BERLIN DECLARATION ON DISABILITY INCLUSION

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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

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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 /

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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CEEC’s K16 Million investment in the disability sector cheers ZAPD

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IMMEDIATE RELEASE Lusaka, 19th March 2025 – The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities acknowledges and appreciates the government’s support through the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC). The investment of over K16 million in 170 cooperatives and individuals with disabilities has significantly improved their socio-economic well-being. This initiative aligns with the Persons with Disabilities Act No. 6 of 2012, which mandates the promotion of economic empowerment for persons with disabilities to ensure their full participation in national development. We commend the individuals and cooperatives that have honored their loan obligations, demonstrating commitment to the sustainability of this revolving empowerment fund. Timely repayment is essential in enabling CEEC to extend financial support to more persons with disabilities and their enterprises. However, we urge those with outstanding balances, totaling K9 million, to fulfill their repayment commitments promptly. This will ensure continued access to funding for other deserving beneficiaries and reinforce the government’s commitment to economic inclusion. ISSUED BY: Mr. Frankson Musukwa Director General Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities

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ZAPD condemns continued killings of persons with Albinism

Press Releases/Statements /

Lusaka 26th February, 2025- The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) strongly condemns the heinous murder of Micheal Simuntala, a 25-year-old man with albinism in Nakonde district. This brutal killing, suspected to be a ritual murder, highlights the persistent violence faced by persons with disabilities, particularly those with albinism. We are deeply disturbed by the gruesome mutilations inflicted upon Micheal’s body. The removal of his upper front teeth is a particularly cruel act that highlights the depravity of the perpetrators. The ZAPD urges the Police to take immediate and decisive action to apprehend the suspects, Willard Sinkala, Chimwemwe Ng’andu, and Misheck Simukonda, and bring them to justice. We demand that the police exhaust all avenues in investigating this heinous crime and ensuring those responsible are held accountable. ZAPD also calls upon stakeholders to address the systemic and deeply ingrained discrimination faced by persons with disabilities, particularly those with albinism. This includes providing adequate protection and support services, raising awareness about the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. The Agency will work tirelessly with law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice is served and those responsible for such heinous crimes are held accountable. To the perpetrators, we say: you will face the full force of the law, and you will be brought to justice. Issued By; Frankson Musukwa Director General ZAMBIA AGENCY FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES

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ZAPD Launches new communication tools

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The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) has launched a four-year communication strategy, marking a significant step forward in advancing its mission to promote the rights, inclusion, and well-being of persons with disabilities across Zambia. This document goes beyond communication; it reflects our commitment to ensuring that every individual, regardless of ability, has a voice, a platform, and access to the information they need to thrive. Special thanks to Eastern Province Deputy Permanent Secretary Dr. Lewis Mwape, ILO Country Director for Mozambique, Zambia, and Malawi Mr. Wellington Chibebe, and the Director General of ZAPD Mr. Frankson Musukwa, alongside other dignitaries that graced the event in Chipata at Protea Hotel. Some key take home points from the Launch of our Communication Strategy and New website. The key instruments developed by ZAPD with technical and financial support from ILO other than the communication strategy include the new website, online registry of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and the online Research Repository. The registry gives access to a comprehensive digital directory of OPDs across Zambia, which is organised by area of focus, geographical location, making it easier for institutions, donors and stakeholders to connect with relevant organisations. The Research Repository on the website will play a vital role in strengthening collaboration between Research institutions, academia and disability organisations. The Launch marks a significant milestone towards the commitment to create a society where every individual is not only heard but understood. The strategy will create an environment where no one is left behind and where persons with disabilities can easily access resources and information they need to engage meaningfully in society. the milestone is a call to focus on implementation of policies, creating decent opportunities that are accessible to all. a call was made to ensure fair employment practices for providing comprehensive Social Protection programs that meet the diverse needs of persons with disabilities. ILO stated that they stand ready to support government in ensuring that persons with disabilities fully participate in all aspects of decision-making and societal progress. Stakeholders urged to continue working together to provide resources and expertise needed to ensure that PWDs are not just included but empowered.

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