Body champions inclusion of women with disabilities  

Peter Tanyanyiwa Suburban Reporter

The Federation of Organisations of Disabled People in Zimbabwe (FODPZ) is championing the inclusion of women with disabilities as the world marks International Women’s Day, highlighting the urgent need for an equitable and inclusive society.

International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8 as a focal point in the women’s rights movement. The day focusses on issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights and violence and abuse against women.

FODPZ’s call is in line with the global campaign theme: “Inspire Inclusion!” and the United Nations’ designated theme of “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress!”

The body said diversity and empowerment across all sectors of society were key for all women including those living with disabilities.

The organisation highlighted the need to recognise the significance of diversity and empowerment in various spheres of society, underscoring the pivotal role of inclusion in advancing gender equality.

Calling for an equitable, just, and inclusive society, FODPZ called for the rights and inclusion of women with disabilities, who often face disproportionate biases and stereotypes.

The prejudices hinder their participation in socio-economic and political spaces and contribute to their invisibility in the public domain. There is a need to break down these barriers and biases prevalent in a male-dominated society, the organisation said.

It urged organisations, groups, and individuals to actively contribute to creating a more inclusive world for women, both within their homes and communities.

“When the world inspires communities to understand and value women’s inclusion, investing in them, we call upon everyone to forge an equitable, just, and inclusive society where women with disabilities are not left behind.

“Our advocacy efforts are directed at influencing women with disabilities to be inspired to be included. By this, there will be a sense of belonging, assertiveness, relevance, and empowerment on an individual basis. It is important for women and girls to understand and value their worth and seek to be included at all times,” FODPZ said.

The organisation appealed to Government and all stakeholders to support women and persons with disabilities in standing up against discrimination and human rights violations.

It also stressed the importance of enabling women and persons with disabilities to realise their potential and actively contribute to national development.

Empowered women, especially those with disabilities, can serve as catalysts for inspiring other women to unleash their potential, despite their marginalised status and the challenges they may face in leadership roles.

FODPZ outlined strategies to ensure that the needs, interests, and aspirations of women and girls, including those with disabilities, are valued and included.

They include promoting women’s economic empowerment, supporting diverse talent in leadership and business, designing disability and women-friendly infrastructure, providing inclusive access to quality education and training, as well as facilitating the active participation and achievement of women and girls with disabilities in various fields such as arts, sports, and tourism.