Disability rights advocates are calling on the Zimbabwean government to address the widespread malnutrition affecting children with disabilities in schools nationwide. They argue that in a country with abundant natural resources, no child should lack proper nutrition.
The Executive Director of the Disability Amalgamation Community Trust (DACT) expressed deep concern, stating, “It’s very painful that we still have situations where children with disabilities in schools are not getting nutritious food. It’s sad that after 40 years of independence, we still have such problems. Food is a basic need that shouldn’t even be up for discussion because Zimbabwe has enough resources to ensure no child goes hungry.”
Recent data highlights the severity of the issue. According to UNICEF, approximately 23.5% of children in Zimbabwe are stunted due to chronic malnutrition.1 While specific statistics on malnutrition among children with disabilities in Zimbabwe are limited, global studies show they are significantly more vulnerable.2 Research published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood found that children with disabilities are substantially more likely to experience all forms of malnutrition than their non-disabled peers.3
Jairos Jiri Primary School, which caters to children with disabilities, exemplifies the challenge. Reports indicate students there struggle with inadequate nutrition due to limited resources. “This is just one of many schools across the country facing the same challenge,” the DACT director noted. “Instead of focusing on extending presidential terms, leaders should be working on policies that ensure children with disabilities are well-fed in schools.”
The Zimbabwean government has programs like the Basic Education Assistance Module (BEAM), which provides tuition fee assistance to vulnerable children.4 However, advocates argue that more targeted efforts are needed to address the specific nutritional needs of children with disabilities. “I call upon the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare to step in and provide resources to improve the diet of children with disabilities,” urged the DACT director.
Advocates emphasize that poor nutrition negatively affects students’ health, concentration, and academic performance, hindering their success.5 They are calling for direct government intervention to ensure all special needs schools have adequate food supplies.
