Disabled Man Appeals for Help to Buy New Wheelchair and Find Working Space in Bulawayo to Support his Family
Jacob Sonerai, a resident of Cowdray Park, is appealing to the public for assistance in purchasing a new wheelchair. Born in 1970, Sonerai has been facing challenges with his current wheelchair, which is no longer functioning properly and is difficult to push due to his old age.
As he relies heavily on the wheelchair for mobility to town where he does shoe repair, this has become a pressing concern for him.
Sonerai, who lives with his four children and five grandchildren, is hoping to find relief with the help of the community.
“The wheelchair I have now is in a very bad condition. It is hard for me to move around, and sometimes it gets stuck, which is really frustrating,” Sonerai says.
He adds, “I am appealing to anyone who can assist me in acquiring a new wheelchair that is more durable and reliable.”
In addition to his need for a new wheelchair, Sonerai is also searching for a space where he can continue his leatherwork and shoe repair business to earn a living.
“I did a leatherwork course at Jairos Jiri Centre back in 1986, and since 1988, I have been sewing shoes,” Sonerai explains.
He explains in a nostalgic tone, “I used to work for Foot and Rub, but now I am struggling to find a suitable workspace. If anyone could provide me with a space, I would be immensely grateful.”
While Sonerai’s personal struggles are significant, they are also representative of the challenges faced by many people with disabilities in Zimbabwe. According to the World Bank, approximately 1.6 million people in Zimbabwe live with some form of disability. These individuals often face barriers in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and basic social services.
Furthermore, Zimbabwe is facing a severe food crisis due to a prolonged drought that has devastated agriculture nationwide. The 2024 El Niño weather pattern has brought widespread crop failures and livestock losses, leaving an estimated 8 million people in need of emergency food aid, according to the World Food Programme.
Persons with disabilities are among the hardest hit by the crisis. They often face challenges accessing resources and assistance due to mobility issues, discrimination, and lack of inclusive policies.
Sonerai highlighted the issue of food insecurity as one of his biggest challenges.
“There is nothing at home. My wife sells vegetables, but it is not enough to adequately support our whole family,” he laments.
He further says, “It is difficult for me to survive without proper nutrition, especially considering my physical condition.”
Sonerai’s plea for support is both urgent and genuine. His contact details are as follows: 0778681504. With the help of compassionate individuals or organisations, Sonerai hopes to obtain a new wheelchair and find a suitable workspace so he can continue to support his family and his own well-being.
As Jacob Sonerai seeks assistance in purchasing a new wheelchair, his story sheds light on the hardships faced by people with disabilities in Zimbabwe. This, coupled with the burgeoning effects of the El Niño-induced drought of 2024, underscores the need for increased support and attention to these vulnerable communities.
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