By Richard Shumba
The Let’s Make A Difference Disability Zimbabwe joined the global community in commemorating the 2025 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), marked annually on December 3.
This year’s theme, “Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” calls for renewed commitment toward creating environments where every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to participate, contribute, and thrive.
Speaking to this publication, Executive Director and Founder Advocate Nigel P. Tahwa emphasized the urgency of addressing persistent inequalities faced by persons with disabilities in Zimbabwe and beyond.
He noted that despite growing awareness, many still encounter barriers to essential services, including healthcare, education, and employment. These obstacles, he said, continue to limit full inclusion and hinder their social and economic progress.
“Today we celebrate the resilience, strength, and potential of persons with disabilities, but celebration must be accompanied by action. We must dismantle the barriers that prevent inclusion and work collectively to build societies rooted in justice, equality, and accessibility,” said Advocate Tahwa.“
The organization emphasized that disability inclusion remains a cornerstone of sustainable development, urging government institutions, private sector players, civil society, and communities to intensify efforts that support persons with disabilities.
These efforts include adopting inclusive policies, improving physical and digital accessibility, strengthening social protection systems, and promoting representation in leadership spaces.
Advocate Tahwa stressed that fostering disability inclusive societies is not simply a responsibility for advocacy groups but a national obligation.
He called for collaborative solutions that prioritize lived experiences and empower persons with disabilities to take part in decisions that impact their lives.
He added that inclusive societies not only uplift individuals but also drive broader social progress by unlocking human potential that often goes unrecognized.
“As we commemorate this day, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind. Together, we can build a world where everyone has equal opportunities and the freedom to flourish,” he said.
The Let’s Make A Difference Disability Zimbabwe Desk urged Zimbabweans to transform solidarity into sustained action, reinforcing the vision of a society where diversity is respected and inclusion is a lived reality“
