United Nations In Zambia Commemorates International Day For Persons With Disabilities

The United Nations in Zambia joined the global community in commemorating the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) on December 3rd, 2024 at Mongu Stadium, Mongu District in Western Province. This year's theme, "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future," underscores the vital role that persons with disabilities play in fostering a more inclusive and sustainable world.

In a speech delivered on behalf of the UN Zambia Resident Coordinator, Ms. Beatrice Mutali, by Ms. Keisha Livermore, IOM Zambia Chief of Mission and Chair of the UN Leave No One Behind Theme Group, the UN reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Zambian government in promoting disability inclusion. Ms. Livermore emphasized, "The United Nations has a longstanding commitment to inclusive society and development. The call to action represented in the phrase ‘nothing about us without us’ reflects a vital principle for persons with disabilities to actively participate in shaping the conditions of their own lives.”

The Western Province Permanent Secretary, Mr. Simomo Akapelwa, highlighted the significant challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Zambia. "Zambia's disability prevalence is estimated at 7.7% of the total population, translating into over 2 million persons with disabilities. The majority of these individuals are still experiencing stigma and discrimination resulting into them not fully participating in Zambia’s governance and development."

The UN's efforts in Zambia include adopting disability-inclusive procurement guidelines and translating the Zambia-United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework into accessible formats such as sign language, braille, and easy-read formats. These initiatives aim to ensure that persons with disabilities can fully participate in development processes.

Ms. Livermore reaffirmed the UN's commitment, stating, "Let me reaffirm the financial and technical commitment of the UN Country Team in supporting the Government of the Republic of Zambia to continue promoting and championing disability inclusion."

Mr. Frankson Musukwa, Director General of the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), called for breaking down barriers and challenging stereotypes. "We are called to ask the vital question of whether persons with disabilities or their voices are present in the policies, programmes, or services being rendered to the public, which is central to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development's promise to leave no one behind," he remarked.

The UN in Zambia is also addressing the unique vulnerabilities faced by persons with disabilities during climate-induced disasters such as droughts. Ms. Livermore highlighted, "In line with the principle of Leaving No One Behind during the drought crisis, the UN's response in Zambia recognizes the unique vulnerabilities faced by persons with disabilities at this challenging time."

As the world moves towards achieving the 2030 Agenda, the leadership and participation of persons with disabilities remain crucial. The UN in Zambia continues to support the government in creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. The call to action is clear: to ensure that no one is left behind, we must amplify the voices and leadership of persons with disabilities in all aspects of development.

During the commemoration, the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities, working with the Christian Blind Mission, presented an award to the UN in Zambia for its leadership and support towards Disability Inclusion.