The International Labour Organization (ILO) and the Government of Cuba have taken significant steps toward strengthening support systems for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Zambia, following high level talks held in Lusaka.
ILO Country Office Director for Zambia and Malawi, Mr. Wellington Chibebe, met with the Cuban Ambassador to Zambia, Mrs. Marileydis Duenas Morales, to explore new avenues of cooperation focused on improving the lives and opportunities of PWDs.
During the meeting, Ambassador Duenas Morales reaffirmed Cuba's long standing commitment to social development and pledged her country's support to help revamp the National Vocational and Rehabilitation Centre (NVRC).
The assistance will include technical assessments and exchange visits between Zambian and Cuban experts aimed at modernizing the centre and enhancing its capacity to provide high-quality vocational training.
In addition to strengthening rehabilitation services, the Ambassador expressed keen interest in partnering on Miracle cataract operations, a programme known globally for restoring sight to thousands of people through quick, cost effective surgeries.
The initiative is expected to provide life changing support to Zambians living with preventable blindness.
Mr. Chibebe welcomed the commitments, noting that disability inclusion is central to the ILO's mandate.
He emphasized that the partnership represents a timely boost to ongoing national efforts to ensure equal access to skills, employment, and social protection for Persons with Disabilities.
"The ILO places disability inclusion and mainstreaming at the top of its agenda. We deeply appreciate Cuba's willingness to collaborate in strengthening Zambia's support systems for Persons with Disabilities," Mr. Chibebe said.
The strengthened cooperation is expected to pave the way for more comprehensive services, expanded training opportunities, and improved livelihoods for Persons with Disabilities across the country.
As both parties move forward with planning and implementation, the partnership marks an important milestone in the pursuit of a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
