Zambia Boosts Disability Inclusion in Western Province

Supported by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Global Disability Fund (UNGDF), the campaign aims to empower stakeholders-particularly Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs)- to understand, engage with, and implement these policies within their communities.

The campaign was officially launched in Mongu District, Western Province, where over 60 OPDs participated in a two-day workshop held from 4 to 5 August 2025 at Mongu's Country Lodge

The workshop was facilitated by the Ministry of Community Development and Social Services (MCDSS) and the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), with technical and financial support from the ILO.

Ms. Florence Banda, Acting Principal Planner at MCDSS, emphasized the importance of inclusive participation in national development: "We need to work together as partners in national development. Disseminating these policies is not just about sharing information-it's about changing lives. We hope OPDs will sensitise their members so they understand their rights and can hold leaders accountable," Ms. Banda said.

Ms. Inger Mutenekwa, Director for Planning and Programmes at ZAPD, acknowledged the support from development partners: "We are committed to ensuring these policies are not only understood but actively used to improve service delivery and inclusion. Thanks to the ILO and UNGDF for supporting this important work."

Mr. Simona Mubiana, ZAPD Western Province Assistant Coordinator, stressed the need for OPDs to be well-informed: "It's vital that persons with disabilities understand these policies so they can fully participate in national development."

Participants were sensitised on the legal protections and strategic goals outlined in the National Policy on Persons with Disabilities, as well as practical steps for mainstreaming disability inclusion across sectors.

Mr. Mwiya Muya, ILO Social Protection National Project Coordinator, highlighted the workshop's impact: "The workshop created space for open dialogue between OPDs and government representatives. OPDs were not only trained on what the law says-they were empowered to hold duty-bearers accountable."

The workshop created space for open dialogue between OPDs and government representatives. OPDs were not only trained on what the law says- they were empowered to hold duty-bearers accountable

ILO Social Protection National Project Co-ordinator, Mr Muya

Mr. Moses Chubili, Partnerships and Coordination Associate for Disability Inclusion at the UN Resident Coordinator's Office, called for collective action: "This is a shared responsibility. We must work together- government, civil society, and communities- to ensure no one is left behind."

As the sensitisation campaign continues across Zambia, the momentum for change is growing. By equipping OPDs and stakeholders with the tools to advocate for their rights, the government is ensuring that disability inclusion is not just a policy goal- but a lived reality.