Fostering Self-Advocacy and Independence for People with Visual Impairment in Zimbabwe

Self-advocacy is a critical factor in achieving independence and social inclusion for individuals with visual impairments. This study aimed to explore the experiences of individuals with visual impairments in Zimbabwe regarding self-advocacy and independence. A qualitative research design was employed. The study was grounded in social constructivist theory. The research was conducted in urban and rural areas of Zimbabwe, targeting adults aged 18 and above with visual impairments. Purposive sampling was used to select 14 participants. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews using an interview guide. The collected data was analyzed using thematic analysis, which involved coding and identifying key themes emerging from participants’ narratives. Findings revealed that education, employment, and assistive technology were key enablers of self-advocacy and independence. However, societal discrimination, lack of awareness about disability rights, and financial constraints were significant challenges. Participants highlighted the need for inclusive education policies, workplace accommodations, and increased access to assistive technology to enhance their independence. The study concludes that while self-advocacy is essential for visually impaired individuals, its success depends on policy interventions, public awareness, and resource availability.