Calls to shun marginalisation of people with disabilities gather momentum

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Writes Marlvin Ngiza

A Gweru-based organisation, Let’s Make a Difference Disability Zimbabwe has called upon families, communities, and the nation at large to introduce more encompassing and participatory events for people with disabilities as a way of helping them explore the world.

Speaking at a family fun day held at Jairosi Jiri Narane Centre, Let’s Make a Difference Zimbabwe President and Executive Director, Advocate Nigel Tahwa, underscored the need for collective efforts to grant equal opportunities, create a sense of belongingness for people with disabilities and challenge all conspiracies that were attached to them.

“We are living in a world where people have become individuals, each to his or her own. This individualism has led to the marginalisation of people with disabilities. It is our role as a nation to work together and give people with disabilities equal opportunities to explore the world just like any other individual. We believe that disability is not an inability and these marginalised individuals are capable of achieving their dreams and reaching greater heights, but of course with our help.

“To make our living world more beautiful and better, first, we all have to put our hands together, help each other and have to create a sense of belongingness towards each other. Together we can make a huge difference in ending misconceptions associated with disability,” said Tahwa.

More than 300 learners from both primary and secondary schools including those with disabilities benefited from the event which was characterized by poetry, modern dances, traditional dances, and modelling.

“Both primary and secondary learners benefited and boosted learners with disabilities’ confidence by realising that they were not different from others. The family fun day targeted those who felt like they had no group to belong to. We wanted to show love to the children, also to show them the love of the family and make a difference in their lives, “added Tahwa.

The benefiting institution could not give their comment due to bureaucracy issues.

The family fun day ran under the theme”Together we can”.