Zambia Country Team Engages Disability Organizations to Strengthen Inclusion Efforts
UNDIS serves as the cornerstone for transformative and sustainable progress on disability inclusion across all pillars of the UN’s work. With the participation of UN agencies, the meeting provided a crucial platform for dialogue, fostering collaboration and innovation while addressing persistent barriers to inclusion.

On 11 December 2024, the United Nations (UN) Country Team in Zambia, in collaboration with the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator, convened a consultative meeting in Lusaka with over 50 representatives of Organizations for Persons with Disabilities (OPDs). 

The gathering centered on advancing partnerships for disability inclusion and reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to the principles of the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy (UNDIS), launched by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in 2019.


A Foundation for Equity

In her opening remarks, UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Ms. Beatrice Mutali, underscored the intrinsic link between disability inclusion and sustainable development. “True development cannot be achieved without the active participation and consultation of persons with disabilities. Our discussions today are instrumental in shaping a more equitable Zambia where everyone can contribute on an equal basis with others,” she said.
Through focus group discussions, participants tackled critical themes such as employment, accessibility, and reasonable accommodation. The dynamic exchange revealed innovative strategies to break down systemic barriers and promote meaningful inclusion.

Participant Voices

Participants shared impactful testimonials and practical recommendations: Susan Phiri, a 23-year-old Branch Coordinator for the Albinism Foundation of Zambia and a vocal advocate for albinism rights, applauded the consultative approach:


“This platform has given me a lot of information that I need for my advocacy. I am eager to use the information to help ensure Zambia becomes an inclusive country where no individual with a disability faces discrimination.” As a model, actress, and activist, Phiri emphasized the need to dispel misconceptions: “Disability is not inability. We can do what any other person can do if only we have an opportunity. Come close to us, learn about us and work with us,” she said.


Moses Soko from the Zambia Deaf Society highlighted the importance of accessible communication systems: “Being included means more than just physical access. It means being heard and valued. True inclusion demands that we empower persons with disabilities to lead and
actively participate in decision-making processes.”


Ian Banda, Director of Youth in Action Disability Inclusion, pointed to the meeting’s timeliness: “The dialogue comes at a critical moment. Youth with
disabilities face challenges in accessing healthcare, employment, and technology. It is time to address these barriers systematically.”
 

Challenges and Opportunities

While Zambia has made strides in disability inclusion, significant gaps persist. Persons with disabilities encounter discrimination, limited access to essential services like healthcare and education, and high unemployment rates. The disparities are more pronounced in rural areas, where infrastructure and resources remain scarce.


UN’s Commitment to Lead by Example

The UN Country Team in Zambia is walking the talk on disability inclusion. Following an audit, some UN offices have been retrofitted with ramps to enhance accessibility. Recruitment policies now actively encourage persons with disabilities to apply, with specific agencies setting employment targets. Notably, the Resident Coordinator’s Office has a Programme Officer who is deaf, reflecting its commitment to inclusive practices.