The Government of Zambia has concluded a two-day provincial-level sensitisation workshop in Mongu District, Western Province, reaffirming its commitment to advancing disability inclusion and strengthening inclusive governance at all levels.
Held from 6 to 7 August 2025 at Country Lodge, the workshop was conducted under the framework of the National Policy on Persons with Disabilities and the Disability Mainstreaming Guidelines, with technical and financial support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) through the United Nations Global Disability Fund (UNGDF).
This milestone event brought together government officials and key stakeholders from sectors including health, education, agriculture, police, sports, and community development, alongside representatives from the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services, the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), and the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office.
Participants engaged in detailed sessions on the two key policy documents and explored practical strategies for mainstreaming disability across public institutions, monitoring policy implementation, and advocating for equitable access to services.
“This training is a critical step toward ensuring that disability inclusion is not just a policy commitment, but a lived reality,” said Mr. Mwiya Muya, ILO Social Protection National Project Coordinator. “By empowering government officers with the tools and knowledge to implement inclusive practices, we are laying the foundation for a Zambia where no one is left behind.”
“Disseminating these policies is not just about sharing information— it’s about changing lives,” added Ms. Florence Banda, Acting Principal Planner at the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services (MCDSS).
Mr. Kamukota Nyirenda, Provincial Sports Coordinator, shared: “This training has opened my eyes to the practical steps we can take to make our services more inclusive, especially in the sports fraternity. I now feel better equipped to support persons with disabilities in my province.”
Ms. Enah Mbelenga, Police Officer at Mongu Central Police Station, noted: “The sessions were enlightening and educative. I’ve learned how to apply the policy in my day-to-day work and how to advocate for inclusive planning at the local level.”
Mr. Aaron Mumba, Physiotherapist at Lewanika General Hospital, emphasized: “Mainstreaming disability in all spheres of life is key to national development. We all have a role to play.”
