Isoka District Commissioner Jairo Simbeye has urged the inclusion and prioritisation of persons with disabilities in Constituency Development Fund (CDF) empowerment programmes.
Speaking in an interview with the media in his office, Mr Simbeye says over 200 persons with disabilities have been registered and issued with identification cards under the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD) in Isoka District.
He explained that the registration exercise aims to ensure that persons with disabilities are properly documented so that they can easily be reached and included in various government empowerment programmes.
The District Commissioner noted that ZAPD’s efforts have helped the district know the exact number of persons with disabilities and their specific needs.
He further mentioned that CDF is designed to benefit all citizens without discrimination, noting that persons with disabilities should take an active role in applying for empowerment support through their ward committees.
“No one should be left behind in the government’s development agenda. My office remains open to everyone, including persons with disabilities,” Simbeye says.
He urged persons with disabilities to engage the district chairperson for information on how to apply for CDF empowerment and other available opportunities.
“Let them come forward and seek guidance. Our doors are open to help them benefit from government initiatives,” he added.
Mr Simbeye also called on the community to embrace inclusivit saying persons with disabilities are part of the district’s development process and must be given equal opportunities.
“Development can only be meaningful if everyone is involved,” he said.
