Abstract:
The baseline study was carried out to investigate empowerment issues of women, children and
young people living with disabilities. Literature has documented the plight of those living with
disabilities as generally marginalised with no specific policy to guide their welfare. Government
on its part has acknowledged the shortcomings in terms of policy as well as resources to cater for
this category of the population. The study focused on Kuwirirana Day Care Centre at
Domboramwari in Epworth, Harare. The target groups were 26 young people living with
disabilities and 24 women/parents or caregivers. Twenty three women and their children with
disabilities participated. A questionnaire and interview schedule were used to collect data. The
interview was carried out with caregivers since the children and young people could not speak
due to disabilities. Results showed that caregivers were disabled in their work due to lack of
resources. The young people's education was generally in state of neglect and so was their
health. The study concluded that as long as there is no policy targeted at those with disabilities
and their caregivers this group of people would remain marginalised. It was recommended that
government comes up with a policy to improve the welfare of parents and children living with
disabilities. Further research should look at the impact of interventions on the empowerment of
women and young people living with disabilities.
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International Journal of Social Science & Economic Research
