Advocate Demands Inclusive disability Policies


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Malumo pushes government and institutions to prioritise inclusion ahead of 2026 polls

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 --- (03-12-2025) — Zambia observes the International Day of Persons with Disabilities today, 3 December, with disability advocates mounting pressure on government and political actors to take disability rights seriously, calling for stronger and more inclusive national policies.

Henry Sinjwala Malumo, a prominent advocate and member of the disability community, said the day should spark a bold disability rights campaign in Zambia.

He warned that symbolic gestures are no longer enough, highlighting persistent barriers faced by persons with disabilities in governance, employment, education, and public services.

Malumo said the country must embed disability inclusion at the heart of its development agenda.

“It is time for state and non-state actors to move from words to action, showing real progress in creating an inclusive society,” he said.

He also underscored the critical role of the media in the campaign.

Malumo urged journalists to amplify the voices of persons with disabilities, expose gaps in policy, and challenge societal attitudes that perpetuate discrimination.

He stressed the importance of specialised media training to improve reporting on disability issues.

With the 2026 general elections approaching, Malumo said the period presents a key opportunity for political parties and aspiring candidates to make disability inclusion a priority in their platforms.

He said leaders must clearly outline how they intend to ensure the rights of persons with disabilities are respected in policy and governance.

Malumo called for stronger collaboration between public and private sectors, saying inclusion must be reflected in workplaces, services, and institutions. 

He urged Zambia to “walk the talk” by translating policies into visible action, including accessible infrastructure and fair employment practices.

He recommended the establishment of Constituency Disability Groups to champion inclusion at community level and urged the Ministry of Labour, professional associations, and trade unions to take responsibility for creating more employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Malumo said the International Day should serve as a wake-up call, stressing that innovation, accessibility, and leadership by persons with disabilities must become central pillars of Zambia’s development.

 “Disability inclusion is not optional; it is a legal, moral, and social imperative,” he said.

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