Nkomwa Foundation Trust target 1000 PWDs

NFT, Executive Director Pick Nkomwa

By Jonah B Moyo

GWANDA – Nkomwa Foundation Trust (NFT) has launched an ambitious project to support over 1,000 people with disabilities in Gwanda and Matobo Districts. The project is set to span the next two and a half years.

For five years, Nkomwa Foundation Trust has been dedicated to transforming the lives of people with disabilities (PWDs) in Matebeleland South Province, providing support and empowerment to create a more inclusive community.

NFT is making significant strides in supporting persons with disabilities in Gwanda District. Key initiatives include the construction of a disability center in Mapate Ward 16 and facilitating access to suitable education for children with disabilities, empowering them for a brighter future.

NFT recently unveiled its new project, ‘Strengthening the Role of Civil Society Organizations and Community-Based Organizations in Promoting Justice and Good Governance in Marginalized Communities,’ at an inception meeting with local government offices and NGOs.

NFT Executive Director Pick Nkomwa said this new project will mostly cater for PWDs.

“We are committed to supporting PWDs in Mat-South Province. This new project will primarily focus on PWDs while also strengthening the institutional capacity of four Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) that serve women, youth, and PWDs in Gwanda and Matobo districts,” he said

He also highlighted that the objectives of the project include promoting inclusivity.

“We are committed to promoting inclusivity and participatory sustainable development, ensuring everyone is included. Our goal is to empower marginalized women, youth, and persons with disabilities in remote areas to actively participate in policy dialogues, legal reforms, and development processes,” Nkomwa said.

He also said that Disability is a cross cutting issue and they have to operate in a smart way.

“While this project will focus on three wards in Gwanda District, NFT will collaborate with implementing partners in other districts, including Matobo, to ensure that persons with disabilities across the region benefit from our initiatives,” said Nkomwa.

Life of PWDs has to change

“PWDs have been marginalized for far too long. Our mission is to bridge this gap, empowering them to reach their full potential and enjoy equal opportunities alongside their peers without disabilities.

“We believe in equality and want to see persons with disabilities represented in policy-making and decision-making bodies. By empowering them from grassroots to national levels, we uplift entire communities. Supporting one person with a disability can have a ripple effect, benefiting their families, caregivers, and the broader community,” he said.

Gwanda Rural District Council Chief Executive Officer Ranganai Sibanda said this project will change many lives in the rural areas.

“We welcome this initiative that focus on marginalized communities in rural areas, empowering persons with disabilities. This project will be transformative, ensuring PWDs are included in community meetings and decision-making processes. We are grateful to NFT for their commitment to supporting PWDs in these areas,” he said.

The project is a joint initiative co-created by a consortium led by Diakonia and three other organizations (Community Youth Development Trust (CYDT), South Western Regional Gender Network (SWRGN) and Christian Legal Society (CLS) funded by the European Union.