General

Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Hon. Doreen Mwamba, has urged the newly appointed Boards for the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) and the National Trust Fund for Persons with Disabilities (NTFPD) to discharge their duties with integrity, professionalism and dedication to public service. Speaking during the official unveiling of the two Boards, the Minister emphasized that their appointment carries both honour and responsibility, as the institutions play a central role in promoting the rights, welfare and inclusion of persons with disabilities in Zambia. Hon. Mwamba noted that strong boards are essential for providing strategic direction, ensuring accountability and strengthening oversight, while allowing management to focus on operational matters and programme implementation. She outlined that the ZAPD Board is expected to enhance coordination of disability programmes, monitor implementation of disability-related policies and legislation, and promote the mainstreaming of disability across all sectors. Meanwhile, the National Trust Fund Board has been tasked with ensuring efficient, equitable and sustainable delivery of rehabilitation, skills development and empowerment services, particularly at community level. The Minister further urged board members to familiarise themselves with the legal frameworks governing their institutions, including the Persons with Disabilities Act, and to uphold high standards of transparency and accountability. She reaffirmed Government’s commitment to disability inclusion in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, stressing that the two institutions remain key to translating policy commitments into tangible improvements in the lives of persons with disabilities and their families. The ceremony concluded with the formal unveiling of the two Boards, marking a renewed phase of strategic leadership in Zambia’s disability sector.

“True inclusion requires more than just legislation; it demands sustained action, partnerships and a shift in societal attitudes.” This was the strong message delivered by the Minister of Community Development and Social Services, represented by the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Mr. Elvis Nkandu, during the Night to Shine celebration held at Heroes Stadium in Lusaka. The event, proudly associated with by the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), was hosted by Beit-CURE Children’s Hospital of Zambia in partnership with the Tim Tebow Foundation. It brought together 36 children with disabilities for a memorable prom night experience centred on dignity, love and belonging. In his remarks, Mr. Nkandu emphasised that every person, regardless of disability, deserves respect, recognition and a sense of belonging. He called on civil society organisations, faith-based institutions, families and citizens to create an enabling environment where persons with disabilities can thrive. The Minister further acknowledged the critical role of partners such as Beit-CURE Children’s Hospital in providing specialised care, noting that Zambia has made notable strides in advancing disability inclusion through policy reforms, social protection programmes and community-based rehabilitation initiatives. The evening itself was a vibrant celebration. Queens dazzled in elegant gowns and flawless makeup, while kings shone confidently in stylish suits and fresh cuts. Beyond the glamour, Night to Shine carried a deeper message — affirming that children with physical and psychosocial disabilities are valued, deeply loved and created with purpose. Meanwhile, the Country Director of Christian Blind Mission (CBM), Dr. Linda Kasonka Nonde, said the event formed part of Valentine’s Day commemorations and reaffirmed her organisation’s commitment to ensuring children with disabilities have access to healthcare, education and full participation in society. Delivering remarks at the event, ZAPD Director General Mr. Frankson Musukwa described the celebration as “more than a prom — a powerful statement that adolescents and young adults with disabilities are valued, respected and worthy of celebration.” He urged society to replace stigma with understanding, exclusion with participation and pity with respect. The event stood as a shining example of partnership in action — reinforcing the shared responsibility of building a more inclusive and equitable Zambia.

In line with its mandate to promote inclusion and strengthen the disability movement in Zambia, the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), last week conducted an Organisational Capacity Assessment of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) in selected districts of Muchinga Province. The assessment was undertaken in Isoka, Chinsali and Mpika districts and aimed at evaluating the governance, operational systems and overall institutional capacity of OPDs. The exercise sought to identify gaps and opportunities for strengthening these organisations to enable them to effectively represent and advocate for persons with disabilities. In addition to the assessment, ZAPD and ILO facilitated a three-day Capacity Building Workshop for OPD leaders at Northern Rock Hotel in Mpika. The workshop brought together selected OPD representatives drawn from all eight districts of Muchinga Province, creating a platform for learning, reflection and peer exchange. The engagement reaffirmed the importance of strong, accountable and inclusive OPDs as key drivers of advocacy, policy implementation and service delivery at community and provincial levels. ZAPD extends its sincere appreciation to the International Labour Organization for its continued partnership and technical support in advancing disability inclusion and strengthening the institutional capacity of OPDs in Zambia. Through collaborative efforts such as these, ZAPD remains committed to ensuring that persons with disabilities are effectively represented and actively participate in national development processes.

Deputy Permanent Secretary Flags Off Distribution of Mobility Aids in North Western Province The Deputy Permanent Secretary for North Western Province, Mr. Luckson Mulumbi, has flagged off the distribution of mobility aids to persons with disabilities in the province on behalf of the Provincial Minister. The mobility aids were donated by Crutches 4 Africa through the Charity Centre for Children and Youth Development and handed over to the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) for distribution to beneficiaries across the province. Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Mr. Mulumbi said the donation would significantly improve the quality of life for persons with disabilities by enhancing mobility, independence, and overall human dignity. He commended the cooperating partners for their continued support towards disability inclusion and empowerment. The distribution of the mobility aids is expected to promote independent living and enable persons with disabilities to participate more actively in social and economic activities within their communities. ZAPD expressed gratitude to the donors and partners for their commitment to improving the welfare of persons with disabilities and reaffirmed its mandate to ensure that no one is left behind.

A team from Leeds Beckett University (UK) visited the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) and conducted an interview with the institution as part of a study on Climate Change and Inclusive Infrastructure and Housing Development. The engagement provided an opportunity for ZAPD to share its input on disability inclusion, climate risks, and the importance of accessible and climate-resilient infrastructure and housing. The team interacted with Acting Director General Mr. Boniface Tumba and Director of Rehabilitation and Research, Ms. Agatha Banda. Following the interaction, Ms. Banda encouraged the researchers to make the findings available once the study is concluded, noting that the research would be a valuable addition to the ZAPD Website Research Repository. To access the ZAPD Research Repository, follow this link:

Happy New Year to our esteemed Stakeholders and Partners in the disability sector! Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), is delighted to share some exciting news as we begin the year. The Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Honourable Doreen Sefuke Mwamba, has officially appointed the new ZAPD Board Members as follows: Amb. Sylvester Katontoka – Board Chairperson Mr. Mumanga Morden Mayembe – Vice Board Chairperson Dr. Thomas Mtonga – Board Member Mr. Edwin Banda – Board Member Ms. Nosiku Lifumbela Mulambia – Board Member Mr. Tyese Japhet Chirwa – Board Member Ms. Carol Kapungwe – Board Member Ms. Kapansa Lizzy Kamukwamba – Board Member We warmly congratulate the newly appointed Board Members and wish them God’s blessings, guidance, and wisdom as they take up this important responsibility. As ZAPD, we look forward to working closely with the Board in advancing disability inclusion and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities in Zambia. We sincerely appreciate your continued support and partnership as we move forward together. Happy New Year once again! Frankson Musukwa Director General – ZAPD

The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) in North Western Province, working through Charity Center for Children and Youth Development, a local NGO, has received a consignment of assorted assistive devices to support persons with disabilities in the province. The donation includes 198 wheelchairs, 402 crutches, 554 walkers, and 250 walking canes, among other essential items. These assistive devices were generously sourced from Crutches 4 Africa and will go a long way in enhancing mobility, independence, and dignity for beneficiaries. ZAPD sincerely appreciates Kansanshi Mine for their invaluable support in facilitating the transportation of the assistive devices from Lusaka to Solwezi. Together, we continue to build a more inclusive society where no one is left behind. #DisabilityInclusion #PartnershipsThatWork #LeaveNoOneBehind

Seasons’ Greetings from ZAPD

. Kasama, Northern Province / Mongu, Western Province — The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) has intensified its nationwide efforts to enhance mobility and promote inclusion by distributing assistive devices to persons with disabilities in Northern and Western Provinces. In Northern Province, ZAPD distributed 100 wheelchairs following the official launch of the distribution exercise by Deputy Permanent Secretary Ms. Beauty Undi in Kasama. The wheelchairs are being shared equally across all districts in the province to ensure equitable access, with deliberate focus on reaching persons with disabilities in rural and hard-to-reach communities. Speaking at the launch, Ms. Undi reaffirmed Government’s commitment to improving the welfare of persons with disabilities through the provision of assistive devices that enhance mobility, dignity, and independence. She emphasized that inclusive development remains a key priority, ensuring that persons with disabilities are fully supported to participate in national development. Meanwhile, in Western Province, ZAPD distributed a total of 100 wheelchairs and 10 tricycles to persons with disabilities in Limulunga, Kaoma, and Nkeyema Districts. Prior to the distribution, ZAPD paid a courtesy call on the Western Province Provincial Administration to brief authorities on the programme. The delegation was led by Provincial Coordinator Ms. Prisca Kabunda Luneta, accompanied by Rehabilitation Officer Mr. Gideon Tembo. Mr. Tembo noted that the intervention aligns with His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema’s inclusive development agenda, which prioritizes equal participation of persons with disabilities and ensures that no one is left behind. Under the distribution, Limulunga District received 30 wheelchairs and 4 tricycles, Kaoma District received 30 wheelchairs and 3 tricycles, while Nkeyema District received 40 wheelchairs and 3 tricycles. On behalf of the Permanent Secretary for Western Province, Assistant Secretary Dr. Mubitelela Sililo welcomed the ZAPD team, commended the initiative, and assured the Provincial Administration’s full support to ensure the smooth and effective implementation of the programme. Across both provinces, ZAPD is coordinating the distribution to ensure the assistive devices reach those most in need. The intervention is expected to significantly improve mobility, independence, and access to social and economic opportunities for beneficiaries, reinforcing Government’s commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and the empowerment of persons with disabilities nationwide.

The Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) warmly welcomes the successful passage of the Motion on Disability Inclusion, which went through Parliament without any opposition. This historic show of unity reflects our nation’s growing commitment to protecting and promoting the rights, dignity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities. We commend the Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Hon. Doreen Mwamba, MP, for informing the House that Government has commenced the formulation of the National Action Plan on Disability Inclusion. This is a critical step toward ensuring that disability inclusion is systematically implemented across all sectors. ZAPD extends its deep appreciation to the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability Inclusion and Rights for spearheading this progressive agenda and amplifying the voices of persons with disabilities within the legislative process. We also recognize the vital efforts and contributions of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), whose advocacy continues to shape national priorities. In particular, we acknowledge dedicated work in promoting disability inclusion, championing community empowerment, and ensuring that the lived experiences of persons with disabilities remain central to policy development. As an Agency, we stand ready to collaborate with Government, Parliament, OPDs, and all partners to ensure that the National Action Plan becomes a practical and impactful tool for advancing disability rights in Zambia. Together, we move closer to a Zambia where inclusion is not just a commitment but a reality experienced by every citizen.