ZAPD

ZAPD Applauds Kalumbila Town Council for Inclusive Development

Press Releases/Statements /

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

ZAPD Applauds Kalumbila Town Council for Inclusive Development Read More »

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

Latest News /

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

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

Stories of change #Disabilityregistration

Latest News /

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.

Stories of change #Disabilityregistration Read More »

ZAMBIA ENDORSES AMMAN -BERLIN DECLARATION ON DISABILITY INCLUSION

General /

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

ZAMBIA ENDORSES AMMAN -BERLIN DECLARATION ON DISABILITY INCLUSION Read More »

ZAPD Coordinator Leads Disability Inclusion Efforts at Transformative Training in Mbala

General /

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.

ZAPD Coordinator Leads Disability Inclusion Efforts at Transformative Training in Mbala Read More »

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)

202 Teachers with disabilities recruited Read More »

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

Press Releases/Statements /

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

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

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

ZAPD condemns continued killings of persons with Albinism Read More »