Disability in Zambia

Response

At risk but not adequately included: People with disabilities’ experience of COVID-19 in Zambia:

“Interventions were largely unresponsive to the needs of people with disabilities, exacerbating the risk of exposure to infection.” (2024, African Journal of Disability)

TV and Film

He's a singer, a cop and the inspiration for a Netflix film about albinism in Africa: profile of John Chiti. (2023, NPR)

‘Can You See Us’ True Story: How a Zambian Singer With Albinism Inspired the Drama on Netflix (2023, Decider)

Research

Community inclusion, participation and support for people with disabilities in Zambia: a qualitative study. (May, Disability and Health Journal)

Disability Research in Zambia: A Scoping Review (2024, Scandinavian Journal of Disability Research)

A study of inclusive education provision ”Limited curriculum reform remains one of the main impediments to the implementation of the inclusive policy for children with SEN in Zambia.” (2023, African Journal of Disability)

Having an income reduces HIV stigma and discrimination The experience of Regina Katungu Chileshe, an entrepreneur living with HIV:

“When you have a low economic status, people generally don’t respect you. And having HIV makes it worse. Through my own experience, I have seen how having an income and running a successful business increases people’s respect and reduces HIV stigma and discrimination.” (2024, ILO)

Access to healthcare for people with disabilities: a qualitative study:

“Participants reported limited information on available services, stigma from community members and healthcare professionals, limited knowledge on disability and a lack of training for healthcare professionals, and challenges with inaccessible health facilities and transport. Some people with disabilities benefited from government schemes, such as the National Health Insurance Scheme, but implementation faced challenges and not all people with disabilities accessed these services.” (Mar, Global Public Health)

Breaking Barriers: Zambia Unveils Landmark Policy and Guidelines for Disability Inclusion in National Development. (May, UNDP)

Albinism and Rights in Zambia: a study report exploring experiences, sociocultural conditions and access to justice:

“This study found that discrimination and stigma against persons with albinism were rife. People relate albinism to bad omens, curses and ghosts or claim that it was a result of the mother’s adulterous relations. Conversely, the body parts of persons with albinism have been regarded as a source of wealth and prosperity. These myths have aroused hate, fear or ambivalence. As a result, those with albinism are vulnerable and exposed to multiple forms of discrimination and violations of their rights, such as physical attacks, sexual violence, lack of access to education, health and employment. This study found that violence against persons with albinism was fuelled by cultural practices and misconceptions, and women were more vulnerable to attacks. This was often reflected in healthcare settings where discriminatory practices manifested against persons with albinism.” (link to pdf, 2024, Ministry of Community Development and Social Services)

CRPD experts review Zambia: Commend Zambia on Disability Legislation, Raise Questions on Persons with Albinism and Land Bursaries for Persons with Disabilities (2024, OHCHR)

30th Session of the CRPD Committee (2024, OHCHR)