A United Voice for Disability Rights in Zambia
The Zambia Federation of Disability Organisations (ZAFOD) is a national umbrella civil society organisation bringing together organisations of and for persons with disabilities.
We strengthen the disability movement through advocacy, organisational development, research and collaboration. Our work centres on the recognition that persons with disabilities are rights-holders who must have equal opportunities to participate, contribute and lead.
Our Story
ZAFOD was established in 1985 and registered in 1986 under the Zambia Council for the Handicapped, as the institution was then known. In 2009, the Federation renewed its registration under the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities.
Since its establishment, ZAFOD has provided a platform for disability organisations to work together, raise shared concerns and advocate for change.
Our purpose remains clear: to strengthen the collective voice of persons with disabilities and promote a society that respects their rights, choices and dignity.
Our Mandate
ZAFOD’s mandate is to:
Advocate for the promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.
Strengthen affiliated Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and disability networks across Zambia.
Undertake research that informs advocacy and responds to issues affecting persons with disabilities.
Raise awareness of the barriers that restrict equal participation in public life.
Promote cooperation and collective action within the disability movement and with other stakeholders.
Our Vision
A society in which persons with disabilities enjoy equal rights, dignity and opportunities and participate fully in all aspects of life.
Our Mission
To unite disability organisations in Zambia, strengthen their capacity and support effective networking and collective action that improves the lives of persons with disabilities.
Our Commitment
Persons with disabilities must be recognised as individuals with rights, aspirations, expertise and the freedom to make their own choices.
We work to remove the physical, institutional, communication and attitudinal barriers that restrict participation. We promote an approach that respects individual autonomy and places persons with disabilities at the centre of decisions affecting them.
Dignity is not negotiable.
Our Organisational Structure
ZAFOD’s organisational structure sets out the relationships between its governance, leadership and operational functions.
Our team brings experience in disability advocacy, organisational development, program management, finance and administration. Together, we support the Federation’s mandate and work with members and partners to advance disability inclusion.
Our Team
Justine Bbakali
Federal Director
Misheck Mutamba
Programmes Manager
Derick Sinyangwe
Finance and Administration Manager
Our Partners
ZAFOD values partnerships that strengthen disability organisations, support advocacy and expand opportunities for inclusion.
The supplied document lists the following funding and cooperating partners:
