The Zambia Agency For Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) has called on the government and stakeholders to implement disability inclusivity programs and policies.

This is with the view of ensuring equal access to opportunities among people with disabilities.

In an interview with ZANIS in Solwezi, ZAPD North-western Provincial Assistant Coordinator Simona Mubiana stressed that persons with disabilities are as gifted as the able bodied therefore efforts should be made to break existing barriers in society.

“Despite facing some facing some challenges such as lack of assistive devices, inaccessible infrastructure and limited employment opportunities the Agency is thankful to government for the 10 percent in the 2025 jobs recruitments for persons with disabilities, “he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Simona explained the importance of obtaining a disability certificate, which serves as proof of competence for individuals with disabilities as it’s a mandate to access social services. 

Mr Simona has urged civic and traditional leaders to prevent stigmatisation, discrimination, and mistreatment of individuals with disabilities, particularly in accessing education to contribute to National development.

He also called on the media to collaborate in raising awareness about disability issues, aiming to change the narrative and perceptions surrounding disabilities.