Category: blog

Zimbabwe Parents of Handicapped Children’s Association (ZPHCA) convened a strategic planning workshop on the 15th and 16th of December 2025 in Harare, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders to shape the organisation’s future direction.

The two-day workshop was attended byparticipants, including ZPHCA Board Members, Senior Management, Field Officers, Volunteers, Government Representatives, youth with disabilities, and other key stakeholders. The inclusive nature of the workshop ensured that different voices, experiences, and perspectives were represented in shaping the organisation’s strategy.

A key highlight of the process was the active participation of youth with disabilities, whose contributions ensured that the strategic plan reflects the lived realities, priorities, and aspirations of beneficiaries. Their involvement strengthened the relevance of the planning process and reinforced the importance of inclusive decision-making within the organisation.

The workshop focused on three main objectives:

• To collectively develop a 5-year organisational strategic plan and action framework
• To gather views from beneficiaries, staff, and stakeholders
• To develop a strategic plan for the period 2026–2030 aligned with national and global development frameworks

The planning process was guided by key national and organisational documents, ensuring that the strategy is grounded in existing policies, legal frameworks, and institutional learning.

Through collaborative discussions, group work, and stakeholder engagement, participants worked towards a shared vision for the organisation, identifying priorities that will guide ZPHCA’s work over the next five years. The process not only strengthened internal alignment but also enhanced ownership of the strategy among stakeholders.

The outcome of the workshop was the development of a draft ZPHCA 5-Year Strategic Plan, which is set to be validated and adopted by the ZPHCA Board during the first quarter meeting of 2026.

The development of the ZPHCA 2026–2030 Strategic Plan marks an important step towards strengthening the organisation’s impact, ensuring that its programmes remain responsive, inclusive, and aligned to the needs of children and youth with disabilities.

Zimbabwe Parents of Handicapped Children’s Association (ZPHCA) participated in the national commemorations of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) held at Jerera Primary School in Zaka on 3 December 2025. The event brought together various stakeholders, organisations of persons with disabilities, government representatives, and community members to reflect on progress made towards disability inclusion and to advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities.

As part of the commemorations, ZPHCA ensured that children and youth with intellectual disabilities were actively represented at the national platform. A total of 10 children and youth with different forms of disabilities participated in the event, providing them with a valuable opportunity to engage with national leaders and share their experiences.

The participation of children and youth with disabilities was particularly significant as it strengthened their confidence, leadership, and advocacy skills. By taking part in national advocacy processes, the young participants were empowered to speak about issues that directly affect their lives, including access to inclusive education, social services, and community support.

During the event, the children and youth with disabilities developed a youth and child-friendly advocacy position paper highlighting key issues affecting persons with disabilities. The document captured their voices, experiences, and priorities, ensuring that the concerns of young people with disabilities are heard at decision-making levels.

The advocacy position papers were presented to key national leaders and representatives including Honourable Senator Annah Shiri, Honourable Senator Ishmael Zhou, who represents persons with disabilities in Parliament, Mr. Zimhunga, Acting Chief Director in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, and Ms. Mercy Maunganidze, Chairperson of the National Disability Board.

These engagements created an important platform for direct dialogue between young people with disabilities and policymakers, allowing leaders to hear firsthand the challenges faced by children and youth with disabilities in their communities.

In addition to advocacy activities, youth with disabilities also participated in exhibitions during the commemorations where they showcased innovative and entrepreneurial products. The exhibition demonstrated the talents, creativity, and capabilities of young people with disabilities, challenging negative stereotypes and promoting greater acceptance within communities.

The participation of ZPHCA and the young people in the national commemorations contributed to raising awareness on disability rights, promoting inclusion, and strengthening community understanding of the abilities and potential of persons with disabilities. It also highlighted the importance of ensuring that children and youth with disabilities are included in national conversations and decision-making processes that affect their lives.

Through such advocacy platforms, ZPHCA continues to promote the meaningful participation of children and youth with intellectual disabilities, ensuring that their voices are recognised and their rights are protected within communities and at national level.