On a warm 22nd July afternoon, The Zambia National Association of Persons with Physical Disabilities (ZNAPD) Board Chairperson Mr. Masauso Ngoma paid a courtesy call to Col Kaunda’s home in Ngwerere area of Lusaka, who serves as a patron of the organization.
Col Panji Kaunda, son of Zambia’s founding President, whose legacy of public service and dedication to the welfare of the Zambian People was well-known, and this visit underscored his ongoing role of the Kaundas as a key supporter of the organization.
Col Panji Kaunda (left), receiving the ZNAPD Chairperson Mr. Masauso Ngoma (right) at his home in Ngwerere area, of Lusaka Province.
Addressing Critical Issues and Future Plans for ZNAPD
Mr. Ngoma brought several critical issues to the Colonel’s attention, highlighting the current challenges and future plans for ZNAPD:
1. Developmental Challenges: Mr. Ngoma detailed the developmental challenges ZNAPD is facing, particularly in securing additional funding opportunities. He explained the organization's ongoing efforts to diversify its funding sources to ensure sustainable growth and support for its programs. Despite the strides made, ZNAPD continues to encounter obstacles in attracting new donors and funding partners, which are crucial for the expansion of their services and outreach.
2. ZNAPD Office Building Title Deed: The issue of the ZNAPD office building title deed was another critical point of discussion. Mr. Ngoma emphasized the importance of securing the title deed for the building donated by the founding President in 1988. This deed is vital for the organization's legal and operational stability. Col Kaunda was tasked with making follow-ups with relevant authorities to expedite the acquisition of the title deed, thereby securing ZNAPD's ownership and long-term use of the property.
3. Impending Visit by Funding Partners: Mr. Ngoma informed Col Kaunda about the impending visit by the organization’s current funding partners this coming August. This visit is crucial as it presents an opportunity for ZNAPD to showcase its achievements, discuss future projects, and strengthen relationships with its partners. Mr. Ngoma stressed the importance of preparing thoroughly for this visit to ensure a successful and impactful engagement with the funders.
4. Staff Development: An update on staff development within the organization was also provided. Mr. Ngoma shared the progress made in enhancing the skills and capacities of ZNAPD staff through various training programs and professional development initiatives. He highlighted the need for continuous investment in staff development to improve service delivery and ensure the organization's effectiveness in advocating for and supporting persons with physical disabilities.
Challenges and Growth Strategies for ZNAPD: Seeking Guidance from Col Kaunda
By addressing these critical issues, Mr. Ngoma underscored the ongoing efforts and challenges faced by ZNAPD, seeking Col Kaunda’s guidance and support in navigating these complexities and ensuring the organization’s sustained growth and success.
The Patron thanked the Chairperson for diligently following up on these issues and for continually honoring the Kaunda family’s contributions to the development of the organization and the disability movement.
ZNAPD Executive Director Mr. Douglas Makusa (left), seeing off Col Panji Kaunda (right) at KK international Airport in Lusaka as he was returning to base in Malawi where he is serving as High commissioner earlier this year.
Historical Ties and Ongoing Support: A Testament of Gratitude
In conclusion, Mr. Ngoma re-emphasizing the historical ties between the Kaunda family and the Disability Movement in Zambia. thanked Col Kaunda for his continued support since taking up this role and his contribution to the organization’s welfare and the Disability Movement at large, wishing him God’s guidance as he continued in this important role. In response, Col Panji expressed his deep gratitude and ongoing commitment to supporting the organization’s mission.
He acknowledged the significant impact his father had made and expressed his determination to continue upholding the family’s legacy of service to the nation, a legacy Dr. Kenneth Kaunda himself would be proud of.
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