The City of Johannesburg is looking ahead to a stronger, more inclusive economy where persons with disabilities (PWDs) are recognised not only as service beneficiaries, but as active participants and contributors to the City's development. This was a key message emerging from the Health and Social Development Department's two-day Economic Summit for PWDs 2026, held last week at the Brixton Multipurpose Centre under the theme “Advancing Inclusive Economic Participation of PWDs in the City of Johannesburg".

The summit brought together PWDs, civil society, government and business stakeholders, including BlindSA, SAB Foundation, Neema Foundation, the Gauteng Provincial Association for Persons with Disabilities, Khomani IT and Marketing Solutions, First National Bank, Old Mutual and Metropolitan.

Discussions focused on barriers that continue to affect the participation of PWDs in Johannesburg's social and economic life. These included accessible transport and municipal facilities, infrastructure, legislative compliance, support for blind persons, education, sport and recreation, employment and sustainable livelihoods.

Executive Head of Social Development Martin Lebea said disability mainstreaming must become an integral part of the City's development planning.

“Disability mainstreaming involves and is centred on ensuring that disability is at the centre of all development initiatives as a norm and undisputable principle," said Lebea.

The City's PWDs Policy of 2021 provides a framework for promoting equal human rights and mainstreaming disability considerations across municipal departments and entities. The summit, however, reinforced the need to move beyond policy commitments towards practical implementation.

Participants also accessed services at the summit, including health screenings through a mobile clinic. Services included blood pressure and glucose testing, pregnancy testing and Pap smears, with referrals made where further medical intervention was required.

The Gauteng Provincial Association for Persons with Disabilities showcased its psychosocial support services, with social workers providing assistance across seven areas in the province, including home visits to PWDs and their families.

Looking ahead, the City will need to build on the summit's engagements by strengthening partnerships with business and development stakeholders, expanding skills development and improving access to markets and meaningful employment opportunities.

The summit also highlighted that genuine inclusion will be measured by what follows the discussions – from policy implementation and budget allocation to accessible infrastructure, responsive services and increased economic opportunities.

Despite challenging weather conditions on the second day, participants remained committed to the programme, demonstrating the collective determination to advance disability inclusion.

As Lebea reminded participants: “Let us continue to serve, for ours is to serve!"

Written by Dr Farhin Delawala
07/09/2026

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