Finance Ministry praised for removing VAT on assis...

Finance Ministry praised for removing VAT on assistive technologies

Zim Now Writer

The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion has been applauded for eliminating Value Added Tax on Assistive Technologies.

The development was made official through the Value Added Tax (General)(Amendment) Regulations, 2024 (No.67) which were gazetted on February 9, 2024.

Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion minister Mthuli Ncube had introduced taxes and duties pushing up the cost of goods and services as well as assistive devices for PWDs.

Signs of Hope Trust said it is essential that numerous consumers with disabilities are not taken advantage of, and that the prices of these devices remain fair and accessible.

“Assistive Devices are not mere luxury items or optional accessories, they are essential tools that enable individuals to attain independence and actively participate in society.

“The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which Zimbabwe ratified in 2013, recognises that assistive devices are a fundamental human right and should be accessible to all who require them.

“Unfortunately, due to various barriers such as limited awareness, procurement challenges, inadequate policy frameworks and insufficient funding, the majority of individuals in need of Assistive Devices currently lack access.

“To achieve the goals outlined in Vision 2030, it is crucial that every individual has the opportunity to fully participate in the country’s development. Therefore, the Ministry’s decision to remove VAT on Assistive Technologies is highly commendable and aligns with the national agenda od inclusivity, ensuring that no one and no place is left behind,” the organisation said.

SoH stated that the organisation will continue to advocate for fair prices of the devices make sure they remain accessible.

“SoH remains dedicated to advocating for improved access to Assistive Technology and the promotion of disability-responsive budgets. In particular, we have recently completed a study on the accessibility of information and Communication Technologies by persons with disabilities which we believe will be instrumental as a reference here such data on access to ICTs by Persons with Disabilities required by stakeholders.

“We will appeal to consumer protection bodies to ensure strict adherence to regulations governing the cost of Assistive Devices,” SoH noted.