Victoria Falls Gears Up to Host Zimbabwe National Disability Expo 2025

The City of Victoria Falls is set to become a beacon of inclusivity and progress as it prepares to host the Zimbabwe National Disability Expo 2025 from June 25 to 27 at Chinotimba Stadium. This annual national event, which rotates across provinces, will see Victoria Falls proudly representing Matabeleland North Province under the powerful theme  “Accelerating Disability Inclusion Now: A Collective Responsibility.”

The Expo is a flagship initiative coordinated by the Office of the President and Cabinet through the Office of the Special Advisor on National Disability Issues. It serves not only as a showcase for innovation and inclusivity but as a call to action — reinforcing the imperative that disability inclusion must be central to national development, planning, and programming.

Over the three days, the Expo will feature, two full days of exhibitions, networking activities, and inclusive side events. A grand official opening on the third day, expected to attract high-level dignitaries and government officials. Attendance from regional counterparts in Botswana, Mozambique, South Africa, and Zambia, affirming the event’s cross-border appeal and importance.

The Expo is expected to leave a transformational legacy in Victoria Falls, particularly through the planned refurbishment of Chinotimba Stadium. Renovations include upgrades to ablution facilities, perimeter fencing, paving, access lighting, and other infrastructure improvements — all geared towards creating a disability-friendly and inclusive venue that benefits the community long after the event concludes.

Speaking during a preparatory stakeholder meeting held at the City of Victoria Falls boardroom, Mr. Macnon Chirinzepi, Director in the Office of the Special Advisor on National Disability Issues, underscored the importance of collaborative preparation. His delegation also toured the stadium, after which various sub-committees were established to coordinate logistics, accessibility, programming, security, and hospitality.

The Expo is not only a symbolic gathering — it delivers tangible development outcomes. In previous host provinces, the Expo has sparked significant improvements in public infrastructure accessibility, compelling local authorities to integrate Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in policy-making, budgeting, and urban planning frameworks.

As Victoria Falls steps into the national spotlight, it does so not only as a tourist capital but as a model city for inclusive development. The upcoming Expo is poised to affirm that disability inclusion is not a special project — it is a national standard that demands consistent action, innovation, and investment.

The countdown is on. Victoria Falls is ready to welcome Zimbabwe, the region, and the world — for a landmark celebration of inclusion, empowerment, and unity.

By Witness A Phiri