By Own Correspondent
MASVINGO – People with disabilities have once again called for better access to safe
products and public services, highlighting gaps in infrastructure, mobility devices and public
transport in Zimbabwe.
Disability Accountability and Consulting Trust (DACT) president, Purazeni Jakata, said many public facilities were still not accessible to persons with
disabilities.
“Our infrastructure as a nation needs to be accessible and inclusive because we want to use
these services as well.
“We also have limited access to mobility devices. The Disability policy was introduced in
2021 and the Disability Act last December, but many institutions have not implemented these
measures.” Said Jakata
Jakata also raised concerns about accessing toilets, transport services and other essential
facilities for people who use wheelchairs.
He called on government and businesses to adopt inclusive designs and promote the local
production of wheelchairs.
The Consumer Protection Commission (CPC) said it was stepping up efforts to ensure people
with disabilities were included in consumer protection programmes.
CPC chairperson Respina Zinyanduko said the commission was creating programmes tailored
to the needs of persons with disabilities and establishing easier ways to report unsafe
products.
“We are creating inclusive programmes tailored to their unique needs and establishing
accessible complaint mechanisms for reporting unsafe products,” she said.
“We are urging businesses to design products that promote an inclusive marketplace,
ensuring that every consumer feels safe and confident in their choices.”
Zinyanduko said CPC was also raising awareness among communities and working with
companies to promote ethical business practices.
She emphasized that consumer protection was not only a legal responsibility but also a moral
duty.
Minister of Industry and Commerce Mangaliso Ndlovu said government was committed to
ensuring that all consumers, including people with disabilities, have access to safe and
trustworthy products.
“Consumers today expect more than just affordable goods. They demand safety, quality,
authenticity and fair treatment.
“The government is strengthening national quality standards and inspections to make sure
products are safe for everyone.” Said Minister
The commemorations, held under the theme “Safe products, confident consumers,” brought
together traditional leaders, government officials, youths, persons with disabilities and
members of the private sector.
Speakers emphasized that inclusion is not only about access to products, but also about
ensuring that all services and infrastructure allow people with disabilities to participate fully
in society.
“Consumer protection is about confidence. When people trust that products are safe, they can
participate fully in the economy,” Zinyanduko said.
World Consumer Rights Day is usually marked globally on March 15, but
