The Government of Zimbabwe, on Friday 24 May 2024, made a historic announcement in Harare,
launching the National Assistive Technology Strategy and Assistive Products Priority List for people with
disabilities. The Assistive Technology (AT) Strategy for Zimbabwe outlines a comprehensive road map to
enhancing access, availability, and utilization of AT devices and services across the country.
It recognizes the importance of AT in promoting the inclusion and well-being of persons with
disabilities, older adults, and individuals with functional limitations. The strategy also addresses the
existing challenges faced in Zimbabwe, including limited affordability, weak governance, inadequate
funding, fragmented supply chains, and a shortage of skilled personnel. This event was attended by the
government dignitaries, representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Organizations of
Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) among other stakeholders. Vision Ability Zimbabwe in collaboration
with other stakeholders participated in the development and launch of the strategic documents. The
development process was led by the Clinton Health Access Initiative with support from USAID.
This strategy and Assistive Products Priority List will ensure that assistive technology reaches those who
need it most, empowering individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential. The strategy further
outlines a comprehensive approach to increasing access to assistive technology, including among many
others: mobility aids like wheelchairs and prosthetics, communication devices like braille displays and
speech-generating devices and visual aids like magnification software and adaptive glasses. Access to
quality assistive technology (AT) in Zimbabwe is challenging due to various factors that are common in
less resourced settings. These challenges include the unaffordability of AT, weak governance,
inadequate domestic funding for AT, limited regulatory capacity, fragmented supply chains, and a
shortage of skilled personnel.
Additionally, the lack of research and data on AT needs, unmet needs, service quality, costs, and
benefits further hinder access to appropriate AT services. Currently, in Zimbabwe, only a small
percentage of those in need of assistive technology have access due to challenges such as high costs,
limited availability, inadequate financing, and a lack of awareness.
Author: Macdonald Mudzaki