DT Correspondent
In a significant step toward amplifying the voices of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the official launch of the special Parliamentary Caucus dedicated to disability affairs took place last week.
The speaker of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda, presided over the launch, marking a crucial milestone in addressing the concerns and issues faced by PWDs.
Daniel Molokele, the Interim chairperson of the caucus and Hwange Central legislator, expressed his satisfaction with the long-awaited announcement.
During the commencement of the National Assembly sitting, Adv Mudenda made the formal announcement, signifying the establishment of the Parliamentary Caucus on disability affairs.
“This is a very important announcement that must be welcomed with so much excitement by all the relevant stakeholders who are seeking to promote the disability agenda,” stated Molokele.
The newly formed parliamentary caucus is expected to serve as a valuable asset in promoting the disability agenda in Zimbabwe.
Prior to its launch, matters concerning PWDs fell under the jurisdiction of the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Social Welfare.
“Parliament established the Parliamentary Caucus on Women and also on youths. Thus, a Parliamentary Caucus on PWDs was a necessity and a good initiative.
“Disability issues should no longer remain on the advocacy agenda but should form part and parcel of the day-to-day running of all activities and government programs,” emphasised Molokele.
Samantha Sibanda, the director of Signs of Hope Trust commended the authorities for recognising the significance of PWDs.
She acknowledged that the establishment of the parliamentary caucus is a strategic move toward realising the rights of persons with disabilities.
However, she also stressed the importance of self-representation of PWDs within parliament.
“It is strategic for the realization of rights of persons with disabilities, but we still add that it must not make us rest – we still need self-representation of PWDs in parliament,” she said.
The launch of the Parliamentary Caucus for Persons with Disabilities signifies a notable development in addressing the needs and concerns of PWDs.
It is a crucial step toward inclusivity and ensuring that disability-related matters are integrated into the core activities and government initiatives of Zimbabwe.
