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Dr Stamps

Dudzai Matewu Herald Reporter
Government has reiterated its commitment to secure sufficient support for parents of disabled children who are struggling to get social services backing due to budgetary constraints.Speaking at the launch of the Glen View 1 Early Childhood Development (ECD) toy library, Dr Timothy Stamps, Special Adviser to the President on health matters said Government will continue to explore ways of supporting the parents to uplift and improve the livelihood of children with disabilities.

“The Government of Zimbabwe is equally committed to the care of persons living with disabilities and will continue to support such gestures,” he said.
“My office will continue to work with your organisation (Zimbabwe Parents of Handicapped Children Association) on issues of disability, health and HIV and AIDS.”

Stakeholders and donors supported the toy library with toys worth US$5 000 to support the care and development of children living with severe multiple disabilities.

Speaking at the same occasion, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Ms Kwadzanai Nyanungo, said children with disabilities faced numerous challenges which required society’s support.

“Children with disabilities are often marginalised and discriminated against,” she said. “There is so much work that needs to be done to create inclusive education and inclusive society.”

The toy library facility, she said, was critical for child development that included physical, emotional, social, health, technological and cognitive development.

Privilege Nyakudya (17), who is physically challenged, said education was important for children with disabilities.

“We are happy with the support we are getting. Since we met as young adults with disability we are happy that this project is opening our minds,” she said.

Isheanesu Centre in Glen View 1 was officially opened in July 1998 by the First Lady Amai Grace Mugabe.

The ECD has enrolled 41 physically challenged children.