By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
PEOPLE living with disabilities in Beitbridge have called for stronger recognition, equal opportunities, and practical support to help them fully participate in the district’s economic and social activities.
This came out on Wednesday during the Women’s Quota budget consultations, where several community members expressed concerns over the lack of inclusive spaces and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Daylight Ruvengera Jojo proposed the creation of a dedicated committee for people with disabilities to ensure their needs and rights are consistently represented at local level.
“We want to be included in decision-making, not to be remembered only when donations come,” she said.
Adding to the calls, Nicholas Ngara urged both government and private employers to give people with disabilities equal chances at jobs.
“We are capable of working. What we need is fair access and to be treated like everyone else,” he said.
Mothers of children with disabilities also pleaded for economic empowerment through the allocation of vending spaces at Mangava Market, where a new vegetable market is currently under construction.
They said the space would help them earn a living while awaiting a designated facility for people with disabilities.
“We are struggling to survive. If we are given vending space, we can work and take care of our children instead of depending on handouts,” said one of the mothers during the consultation.
Responding to the calls, Beitbridge Town Clerk Loud Ramakgapola assured participants the council does not discriminate against people with disabilities when it comes to job opportunities.
“Our recruitment process is open and fair. We urge people with disabilities to apply for available positions because they stand the same chance as everyone else,” he said.
He fmade a commiament that future job adverts wilthencourage women and people with disabilities to apply.
Ramakgapola revealed the council received an application from Jairos Jiri Association to build a disability centre in Beitbridge.
“We welcome initiatives like this because they help improve access to services and create opportunities,” he said.
Advocates say the lack of accessible infrastructure, limited job opportunities, and poor representation in decision-making remain major barriers for people with disabilities.
They hope that these discussions will translate into real action and policy shifts at local level.