Government has launched a review of the Disability Revolving Loan and Special Grants Operational Manual as part of efforts to strengthen financial inclusion and improve access to economic empowerment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
The review, being undertaken by the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, is assessing whether the operational framework adequately aligns with the recently enacted Persons with Disabilities Act and the National Disability Policy.
“The Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare this week commenced a review of the Disability Revolving Loan and Special Grants Operational Manual,” the ministry said.
According to the ministry, the exercise is examining the extent to which the current framework reflects rights-based principles and promotes equal access to financial services.
“The workshop is assessing the manual's alignment with the Persons with Disabilities Act [Chapter 17:13] and the National Disability Policy.”
“Delegates are identifying gaps in the application of a rights-based approach and exploring ways to ensure barrier-free access to financial services for persons with disabilities.”
The review comes as Zimbabwe continues implementing reforms aimed at promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities in social, economic and public life.
Related Stories
A key focus of the workshop is the simplification and improvement of procedures governing access to loans and grants under the programme.
“The review is also examining existing loan and grant procedures with a view to proposing clearer, more inclusive processes, while strengthening monitoring, evaluation and financial management frameworks.”
Access to affordable financing remains one of the major challenges facing many persons with disabilities, particularly those seeking to establish businesses, expand income-generating projects or participate more fully in the economy. Stakeholders have often argued that traditional financial systems can create barriers through complex application procedures, inaccessible facilities and limited consideration of the unique circumstances faced by persons with disabilities.
The review follows the enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Act, which strengthened legal protections and sought to advance the rights, inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities across various sectors of society.
The legislation aligns with Zimbabwe's commitments under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and broader national development goals centred on inclusivity.
By reviewing the operational manual, authorities are seeking to ensure that disability-focused financing programmes move beyond welfare support towards empowerment, entrepreneurship and economic participation.
The ministry said the review is expected to identify key reforms that will enhance the effectiveness, accessibility and accountability of the Disability Revolving Loan and Special Grants programme, ensuring that more persons with disabilities can access opportunities to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development.
Leave Comments