16/03/2026
Dialogue Meeting on Operationalizing the National Strategy for Assistive Technology in Zimbabwe. Deaf Zimbabwe Trust convened a multi-stakeholder dialogue under the theme “Turning Policy into Practice: Operationalizing the National Strategy for Assistive Technology.” The meeting brought together government representatives, Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), service providers, development partners, academia, and private sector stakeholders to discuss practical steps toward improving access to assistive technology in Zimbabwe. The dialogue focused on strengthening collaboration, aligning implementation efforts, and identifying solutions to ensure that assistive technologies become accessible, affordable, and available to all persons with disabilities.
During the opening remarks, Mr Khuze Dube , Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC) emphasized the importance of collective action in implementing the national strategy.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of the Director of Disability Affairs, Alive Matsaure – Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare (MPSLSW) highlighted the broader impact of assistive technology on dignity and equality:
“Assistive technology is central to dignity and equality. Improved access will open doors to education, unlock opportunities for employment and enable full participation in society. Zimbabwe has taken a historic step with the National Assistive Technology Strategy to ensure that no one is excluded.”
The meeting also included presentations outlining the strategy’s priorities and implementation framework, as well as a plenary discussion on the current state of assistive technology access in Zimbabwe , exploring key challenges such as affordability, service delivery gaps, limited infrastructure, and the need for stronger partnerships across sectors. Stakeholders collectively discussed practical steps and coordination mechanisms to advance implementation and ensure that assistive technologies reach those who need them most.
Participants included representatives from MPSLSW, Ministry of Health and Child Care (MOHCC), Vision Ability Zimbabwe, Mushawedu, Ruwa Rehabilitation Hospital, National Council of Disabled Persons of Zimbabwe (NCDPZ), NASCOH, FODPZ, and Jairos Jiri Association , among others. Deaf Zimbabwe Trust remains committed to working collaboratively with government, OPDs, service providers, and development partners to translate policy commitments into tangible action that improves the lives of persons with disabilities across Zimbabwe.
Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare National Council of Disabled Persons of Zimbabwe
Federation of Organisations of Disabled People in Zimbabwe-FODPZ Jairos Jiri