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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.