By Bigboy Madzivanzira
The Health Promotion Clinic Trust (HPCT) has received another generous donation from St Christopher’s Children with Disability, further strengthening its Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) programme.
This latest consignment includes supportive chairs, standing frames for adults, walkers, and commode chairs, building on last year’s successful donation that brought mobility aids to children in remote peri-urban areas.
The equipment was sourced from Physionet UK, a generous donor making life easier for individuals with disabilities in Zimbabwe.
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a significant concern in Africa, with a pooled prevalence of 3.34 per 1000 live births. Spastic CP is the most common type, accounting for 69.30% of cases, followed by quadriplegic CP (41.49%). In Zimbabwe, studies suggest that CP is a major cause of disability among children .
“This contribution will greatly enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in the community,” said Mr Bigboy Madzivanzira, Founder and Director of HPCT. “Training for community rehabilitation workers is the backbone in the quality of life for persons with disabilities,” he added.
The HPCT plans to utilise the equipment and resources to provide professional wheelchair and therapy services, as well as train care workers in both communities and institutions. This initiative aims to empower community workers, improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities, and promote integration and support.
Patricia Kambarami, Director of St Christopher’s Children with Disability, expressed appreciation for the role HPCT is playing in running the CBR programme, stating that it is necessary for assisting children in the community and supporting those transitioning from institutions to community-based care.
The partnership between HPCT and St Christopher’s Children with Disability is a testament to the power of collaboration in promoting the rights and well-being of individuals with disabilities.
The impact of cerebral palsy on families in Zimbabwe and the region can be significant. Families often face challenges accessing healthcare, education, and social services, leading to social isolation and economic strain. Caregivers, often mothers, may experience emotional and physical stress, affecting their own well-being.
About the Author:
Bigboy Madzivanzira is a registered Medical Rehabilitation Practitioner, Health Promotion Practitioner, Family and Child Therapist, and Freelance Journalist accredited by the Zimbabwe Media Commission. He is the Founder and Director of Health Promotion Clinic Trust (HPCT), a leading organization in Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) programmes in Zimbabwe. He is also a member of the Community Based Rehabilitation Afica Network (CAN). Bigboy can be contacted on 0773 367 913 or healthpromotionclinic@gmail.com