Disability and health promotion for survivors of road accidents in Zimbabwe: the voices of persons with disabilities induced by road accidents at St Giles Rehabilitation Centre, Harare

Abstract

When a person has been involved in a serious accident, he or she understands that the consequences can be physical, emotional, and financially overwhelming. This paper sought to explore the strategies that can be adopted to ensure the wellbeing of persons with disabilities brought by road traffic accidents in Zimbabwe. This research was informed by data collected through the qualitative research. Data which informed this research was collected from persons with disabilities induced by road accidents, key informants and qualitative documentary analysis. In-depth interviews and focus group discussion were the main data gathering instruments. The research findings revealed that the wellbeing of persons with disabilities induced by road accidents can be ensured by increasing, improving rehabilitation, increasing disability awareness, accepting self, and allowing the family to play a role. Utilising the social model conceptual framework, the article argues that practices and policies should be put in place to identify and remove barriers against persons with disabilities induced by road accidents to ensure their wellbeing and for them to live inclusive lives free of discrimination and prejudice.