Harare – In a historic move toward inclusivity, the Women’s Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCoZ) officially launched the Women with Disabilities Forum, mapping a new dimension in the fight for the rights and empowerment of women and girls with disabilities in Zimbabwe.

Held at the Rainbow Towers Hotel, the event brought together key stakeholders, including government representatives, civil society organizations, and development partners, all united in their commitment to creating a more equitable Zimbabwe.

In her opening address at the launch, the WCoZ Chairperson, Muchanyara Mukamuri described the launch as a moment of hope, resilience, and unwavering commitment towards building a society where every woman and girl, regardless of ability, can thrive.

“This forum is not just a formal event—it is a declaration that the voices of women with disabilities must be heard, their rights protected, and their participation in all aspects of life ensured,” she said.

The forum builds on a 2022 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between WCoZ, the National Association of Societies for the Care of the Handicapped (NASCOH), and the Federation of Organizations of Disabled People in Zimbabwe (FODPZ). This partnership has been instrumental in advancing joint advocacy, research, and capacity-building initiatives for women with disabilities.

“That MoU was more than ink on paper—it was a call to action,” said Mukamuri. “Today, we take another bold step forward.”

The newly launched forum will focus on developing a comprehensive advocacy work plan to advance disability rights while also amplifying the voices of women with disabilities in policy and decision-making. It aims at ensuring inclusive access to education, healthcare, employment, and social services.

The Chairperson extended appreciation to key supporters, including the African Women’s Development Fund, HIVOS, and the Irish Embassy, for their steadfast commitment to gender equality and disability rights.

“Your partnership fuels this movement,” she said.

“Together, we will break barriers and build a Zimbabwe where no woman is left behind.”*

A Call to Collective Action

In her closing remarks, Mukamuri urged all stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and into tangible action.

“As I officially launch this forum, I call on each of you to join us in this mission. Let us work hand in hand to create a future where women and girls with disabilities are not just included—they are empowered to lead.”

Women with disabilities in Zimbabwe experience  barriers in accessing basic services including education, healthcare, and employment. They are particularly vulnerable to violence and abuse. 

While, Zimbabwe has made efforts to establish a legal framework for the inclusion of persons with disabilities, there exists a myriad of challenges towards ensuring effective implementation and enforcement of this framework.