Government Policy Initiatives and the Economic Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Zimbabwe’s Second Republic

This research evaluates the effectiveness of Zimbabwe’s government policy initiatives under the Second Republic in promoting the economic rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs), particularly in the areas of employment, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion. It analyses the legislative and policy measures intended to support PWD economic inclusion and assesses the implementation strategies of these policies, identifying significant gaps in enforcement and resource allocation that hinder full participation. Utilizing an exploratory, mixed-methods approach, the study integrates qualitative and quantitative data collected through documentary analysis, stakeholder interviews, and questionnaires, employing purposive and snowball sampling techniques to engage participants with relevant expertise in disability rights and economic policy. Thematic analysis reveals key challenges, including inadequate policy enforcement, insufficient funding structures, and a lack of supportive systems. Furthermore, issues such as physical inaccessibility, financial exclusion, and societal stigma continue to limit the economic participation of PWDs. The study concluded that Zimbabwe’s National Disability Policy (NDP) and National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) present commendable frameworks aimed at promoting economic inclusion for persons with disabilities (PWDs), yet they remain hampered by weak implementation, insufficient funding, and systemic barriers that persist in marginalizing PWDs. While these policies recognize PWDs' rights to employment, entrepreneurship, and financial access, their practical impact is constrained by the lack of accessible infrastructure, ineffective policy enforcement, and societal stigma that impedes fair economic participation. To truly fulfil PWDs' economic rights, Zimbabwe must not only strengthen enforcement mechanisms and allocate targeted resources but also implement integrated support systems that address both the social and structural dimensions of inclusion. Only through decisive action can Zimbabwe transform policy ambitions into real, equitable opportunities for PWDs, thus ensuring alignment with both national commitments and international standards of economic empowerment. In this regard, it recommends that; The Ministry of Finance should allocate funds for disability initiatives and ensure accountability. The Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare should enforce accessibility standards in infrastructure and employment. The Ministry of Industry and Commerce should promote disability inclusion in sectors. The Ministry of Finance and Women Affairs should create adaptive loan products for PWDs. The Ministry of Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare should support disability advocacy groups. The Office of the Special Advisor on Disability Issues should prioritize disability in government programs. Laws should align with the UNCRPD, led by the Ministry of Public Service and supported by the Ministry of Justice. Parliament should pass a disability inclusion Act and establish a portfolio committee for disability and inclusion.

Government Policy Initiatives, National Disability Policy

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