Disability community voices concerns over new Disability Bill

Providence Moyo

A recent virtual discussion hosted by the Zimbabwe Council for Churches (ZCC) exposed discontent within the disability sector regarding the newly gazetted Disability Bill.

 Participants expressed concerns that the bill falls short of expectations, lacking inclusivity and clear action plans.

Disability specialist, Senzeni Mutevedzi, argued that the bill fails to outline specific ways Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) can access the essential services it promises. “The bill doesn’t specify how PWDs will access their right to education and health,” she stated. “This raises concerns that the document may not directly address their needs.”

Mutevedzi further emphasized the need for PWDs to be included in decision-making processes. “The bill focuses on PWDs receiving services, but not influencing them within their communities,” she said. “We want PWDs in leadership positions and recognized within traditional structures.”

Disability inclusion activist Tsepang Nare criticized the perceived lack of independence for the disability coalition established by the bill. “The coalition must report to the Minister of Public Service, hindering its autonomy,” Nare argued. “This dependence on ministerial approval creates delays and weakens the proposed board’s power to influence change.”

Legal practitioner Abraham Mateta expressed concern about the bill creating a “super ministry” that diminishes disability as a cross-cutting issue. “We need to treat disability as an evolving concept,” he argued. “The current bill might require a complete revision to be truly inclusive.”

Senator Anna Shiri highlighted the importance of including women with disabilities in leadership positions, particularly within the allocated 66 seats for women in parliament.

Another participant, identified as Themba, criticized the use of phrases like “when funds are permitting.” Themba argued that such language undermines the bill’s commitment to inclusion and could be used to restrict access to services.

The recently gazetted Disability Bill aims to address challenges faced by PWDs in Zimbabwe. The bill establishes a commission with seven members appointed by the minister. However, the selection process involves a panel of names submitted by organizations deemed qualified by the minister.

The ZCC discussion underscores the need for further dialogue to ensure the Disability Bill effectively addresses the needs and aspirations of the disability community in Zimbabwe.