10/12/2025
FREEDOM TO THE DISABLED PERSONS IN ZIMBABWE ( FDPZ )
Solidarity Speech for International Human Rights Day
Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow advocates for human rights,
Today, we gather to celebrate a fundamental truth: Disability Rights are Human Rights. As we commemorate International Human Rights Day, we acknowledge the significant strides made by Zimbabwe in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities.
We applaud the government's ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), a landmark commitment to ensuring the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities. This move has placed Zimbabwe on the path towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
We also welcome the adoption of the African Protocol on Disability, a regional instrument that amplifies the voices of persons with disabilities across the continent. This protocol serves as a beacon of hope for a future where disability is not a barrier to participation and contribution.
Furthermore, we acknowledge the development of the Disability Policy, a crucial step towards translating policy into action. This policy framework has the potential to transform the lives of persons with disabilities, promoting equal access to education, employment, healthcare, and social services.
The amendment of the Disability Act is another significant milestone, demonstrating Zimbabwe's commitment to aligning its laws with international standards. This amendment will go a long way in ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in the country's development agenda.
However, we recognize that these achievements are not the end of the journey. We must continue to work together to address the systemic barriers and challenges that persons with disabilities face. We must ensure that the rights enshrined in these instruments are realized in practice, not just in theory.
As we celebrate these milestones, let us renew our commitment to promoting Disability Rights as Human Rights. Let us work together to create a society that values diversity, promotes inclusion, and recognizes the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of ability.
In the spirit of solidarity, let us join forces to build a more just and equitable society, where persons with disabilities can thrive and reach their full potential.
Thank you.