PROMOTING socio-economic inclusivity among people with disabilities remains the Government’s priority, Minister of Community Development and Social Services, Doreen Mwamba has assured.
According to research people with disabilities make up approximately 15 percent of the world’s population with many of these living in low and middle in countries likely to experience social exclusion, and socio-economic challenges like poverty, poor health care, and social welfare.
Ms. Mwamba told The Scoop that with and by persons with disabilities, various developmental goals would be achieved without leaving anyone behind.
She said that every citizen had an important role to play in the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) hence the Government’s effort in ensuring an inclusive environment for all.
She said that the Government highly values the immeasurable contribution people with disabilities have rendered to the nation, and will therefore ensure their interests are prioritized.
“As a Government we remain focused in ensuring that all citizens are provided with the necessary support needed to enhance their capacity to contribute to national development. Ensuring that persons with disabilities are included in all developmental agendas is our priority as the new dawn government,” Ms. Mwamba said.
“All citizens including persons with disabilities play a critical role in fostering national development in various sectors of the economy. All stakeholders in the country need to be more accommodative and ensure that people with disabilities are incorporated into all aspects of national development and not have anyone discriminated against based on physical ability, “she said.
She said that the Government’s commitment is to promote inclusivity in the country.
She said that embracing the diverse abilities of every individual is where Zambia’s strength is in attaining its developmental agendas.
She emphasized on the continued need to work together as stakeholders in removing barriers, promoting equal opportunities, and ensuring that the rights and dignity of people with disabilities are upheld.
She further called for unity towards breaking barriers and practices that contribute to discriminations in society.