The Harare Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Network convened a strategic meeting yesterday, chaired by the Deputy Director for Rehabilitation Services, Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC).
Bigboy Madzivanzira of Health Promotion Clinic Trust, CAN Country Representative for Zimbabwe, briefed the Network on the purpose and mandate of CBR Africa Network (CAN). He outlined that CAN’s Southern Africa region covers Zambia, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Madagascar and Mauritius under Regional Coordinator Joyce Matara.
An apology was made on behalf of Madam Joyce Matara and Mr Tawanda Nhamburo who were unable to attend due to other partner commitments.
Quoting the Regional Coordinator, Madzivanzira said: “We accept the Harare Community Based Rehabilitation Network’s invitation with appreciation. Due to a prior partner meeting, the CAN Zimbabwe Representative will convey the proceedings of the meeting to us so that we remain aligned and supportive of the Network’s work.”
The briefing was presented in line with the Deputy Director for Rehabilitation Services’ directive that “CAN Africa Network must embrace and work through Government structures.”
Key Presentations:
1. Evidence of Impact – Livelihoods for CBR Clients:
Mr Madzivanzira highlighted that while most beneficiaries receive mobility aids like ♿️ wheelchairs, artificial legs and hands, little donor attention is given to livelihoods.
He shared the Health Promotion Clinic Trust “Three Duck Cycle”. The initiative started with three ducks given to a Community Based Brain Tumour patient. As the ducks multiply, three are passed on to another stroke patient, and the cycle continues.
“This empowers CBR clients,” said Madzivanzira. “It serves as both therapy as they feed and care for the ducks, and as a means of livelihood.”
Partners hailed the initiative, but there was good discussion on the project Some members indicated that clients should be asked about the projects they prefer, so there should be a variety of community-based projects to give. This will ensure projects are client-centered and sustainable.
2. Children with Disabilities Left Behind:
Mr Madzivanzira advised that children with disabilities are being left behind as some cannot reach the nearest school on wheelchairs.
He proposed home schooling where teachers can visit children in the same way physiotherapists visit their patients, on a session basis when going to meet patients. This would ensure continuity of education for children who are not mobile.
3. 2027 Policy Proposals for Network Adoption:
– Child Safeguarding Policy
– Home-Based Therapy Guidelines
– Therapy Register for Continuity of Care, modeled on the Health Promotion Clinic system
4. Strengthening Learning: The team proposed exchange visits and idea sharing as a key mechanism for peer learning across districts and organizations.
Discussion and Way Forward
*Ms Gail Chirebvu* asked the CAN Africa Network Zimbabwe Representative whether *CAN Africa Network can assist with funds or any means to support CBR initiatives to achieve their objectives. She noted that funding has been a challenging thing, even when trying to hold workshops.
In response, the CAN Africa Network Zimbabwe Representative said he will hear more from the CAN Africa Network Regional Coordinator on possible support options.
The Deputy Director for Rehabilitation Services advised the Harare CBR Network to invite CAN Africa Network again to the meeting scheduled for 3 November 2026 to continue the engagement.
The presentation was well received. The Deputy Director for Rehabilitation Services commended the collaborative approach and reiterated the importance of all partners working through Government systems.
“We must build one strong CBR system together,” the Deputy Director for Rehabilitation Services said.
“As CAN Country Representative, we are here to support Government and strengthen what is already working,” said Madzivanzira.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Bigboy Madzivanzira is Founder and Director of Health Promotion Clinic Trust and serves as CAN (CBR) Africa Network Zimbabwe Representative.
His work focuses on health promotion, disability inclusion, and community-based rehabilitation.
Cell: 0773 367 913 |Email: healthpromotionclinic@gmail.com