By Bigboy Madzivanzira
The Medical Rehabilitation Technicians Association held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on November 21, 2025, marking a significant milestone in promoting inclusion and diversity.
The event began with a prayer, followed by introductions from invited guests and partners.
Tawanda Nhamburo, who has experience running the JF Kepnek CBR programme, kept the AGM live, sharing his insights and expertise with the attendees. The National Chairperson of the Association,Zenzo Sibanda gave opening remarks, highlighting the importance of membership, both locally and internationally. He emphasized the need for Medical Rehabilitation Technicians in Zimbabwe and the Diaspora to come on board, stressing that a strong membership would enable the association to better advocate for the rights and interests of its members and the communities they serve.
The National Chairperson then invited the Deputy Director for Rehabilitation Services, P.T Ncube, to share his thoughts. Mr. Ncube emphasized the importance of unity and a shared purpose among Medical Rehabilitation Technicians and all registered medical rehabilitation practitioners in Zimbabwe.
“I am not interested in what title you hold or what specific role you play,” Mr. Ncube said. “What I care about is that we work together towards a common goal: improving the lives of individuals with disabilities and promoting their inclusion in society.” The Deputy Director for Rehabilitation Services emphasised the government’s commitment to improving quality of life for persons with disabilities. This was evidenced by increasing posts at both national, provisional and district levels. He cited the orthopaedic technologists whom he said was facing extension. The is no training locally hence they want to start next year. He also said the government was looking to ways to reduce practising fees which he felt was straining practitioners.
He praised Medical Rehabilitation Technicians, saying they are the backbone of rehabilitation services in Zimbabwe. He revealed promising plans to second Medical Rehabilitation Technicians to rural health centers, aiming to bring rehabilitation services closer to beneficiaries’ homes.
After the Deputy Director’s presentation, Secretary General Mr. Ghozho led a plenary session with representatives from the University of Zimbabwe (UZ), Medical Rehabilitation Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe (MRPCZ), and the Rehabilitation Technicians Training School (RTTS). The session addressed various concerns raised by attendees, including high practicing fees, issues with payment structures, and delays in issuing practicing certificates.
One of the pressing issues discussed was the restriction on Medical Rehabilitation Technicians (MRTs) opening their own practices, despite having the necessary resources. MRTs felt that this clause was a legacy of colonial-era policies aimed at preventing black professionals from establishing their own practices. The attendees pointed out the irony of this restriction, given that most District Hospitals in Zimbabwe are already headed by MRTs.
A comment from one of the MRTs resonated with many: “It’s like giving someone wings and refusing him to fly.” This powerful analogy captured the frustration and sense of injustice felt by MRTs, who feel capable and qualified to run their own practices but are being held back by restrictive policies.
Leonard Cheshire Disability Zimbabwe’s presentation focused on the manufacture of artificial limbs, emphasizing the importance of proper casting and customization. They stressed the value of collaboration with Medical Rehabilitation Technicians, discussing possible arrangements for taking measurements and payment options, including medical aid and payment plans.
Due to time constraints, some researched presentations were reserved for webinars, allowing attendees to access them online later. One of the reserved presentations was mine, “Role of Assistive Technology in Rehabilitation”, which will be shared online soon. Other presenters’ topics were also scheduled for online sharing, ensuring that valuable information reaches a wider audience.
The Zimbabwe Parents of Handicapped Children Association (ZPHCA) made a compelling presentation, showcasing their work in supporting families and children with disabilities. They cover many districts, providing resources and support to families, teaching mothers basic exercises, and partnering with other NGOs to support children with cerebral palsy and other conditions.
The event demonstrated the value of collaboration and partnership-building in promoting inclusion and diversity. The involvement of relevant partners was notable, and a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of working together to support individuals with disabilities.
As one observer noted, “The coming of the partners is really a win-win situation and a very good benefit for persons with disabilities.” The Medical Rehabilitation Technicians Association’s commitment to collaboration and partnership is commendable, and their efforts are likely to have a positive impact on the lives of individuals with disabilities. The success of the AGM was made possible by
Membership & leadership of ZMRTA who mobilized, planned, contributed funds and implemented.
Mr Machengere (RT) logistical support like organising venue
Mr Chivafa (Ruwa) donated funds for all meals
Our guests like DD, MRPCZ, ZBCW, UZ, RTTS & Medical sup Dr Pomo, ZPHCA, Leonard Che made the event a success by attending, & contributing massively to the engagements.
About the Author
Bigboy Madzivanzira is a multifaceted professional with expertise in health promotion, medical rehabilitation, special needs education, and freelance journalism. He is a registered Health Promotion Practitioner, Medical Rehabilitation Practitioner, and Freelance Journalist. Bigboy is also the founder of the Health Promotion Clinic Trust, which provides various services, including physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and education, with a focus on supporting individuals with disabilities.
Contact Bigboy Madzivanzira
Phone: 0773367913
Email: healthpromotionclinic@gmail.com