Economic Empowerment
We establish sustainable income-generating projects that create employment and entrepreneurship opportunities for visually impaired people.
Opportunity · Inclusion · Livelihoods
MVIA
Manicaland Visually Impaired Association
Empowering Visually Impaired People Through Opportunity, Inclusion and Sustainable Livelihoods
MVIA creates lasting opportunities for visually impaired people to achieve independence, dignity, and economic security across Manicaland and beyond.
Who we are
Our mission
The Manicaland Visually Impaired Association (MVIA) is dedicated to empowering visually impaired people through economic empowerment, education, skills development, advocacy, and inclusive community programmes. We work to create opportunities that enable visually impaired individuals to live independent, productive, and dignified lives.
What we do
How we create opportunity
Practical programmes that promote independence, inclusion, and sustainable livelihoods.
What we do — programme areas
Impact
Why our work matters
Thousands of visually impaired people in Zimbabwe continue to face barriers to education, employment, healthcare, and economic participation. Many experience poverty, unemployment, social exclusion, and limited access to opportunities that allow them to become financially independent.
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These challenges are not caused by disability itself but by the lack of accessible opportunities, resources, and inclusive systems.
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Every visually impaired person deserves the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society, earn a sustainable income, and live with dignity.
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Through innovative programmes and partnerships, we are working to build communities where disability is never a barrier to success.
Programmes
Our programmes
Sustainable initiatives that promote economic empowerment, education, inclusion, and improved quality of life.
Economic Empowerment Programme
Many visually impaired people face high levels of unemployment and limited access to income-generating opportunities. As a result, many households experience poverty and financial insecurity despite having valuable skills and potential.
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Skills Development and Vocational Training
Many visually impaired individuals have limited access to vocational training, business development, and practical skills needed to compete in today's economy.
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Education and Assistive Technology Programme
Children and adults with visual impairments often face barriers to quality education due to limited access to accessible learning materials and assistive technologies.
Learn moreInclusion
Disability Services
The Manicaland Visually Impaired Association (MVIA) is committed to improving the quality of life of people living with visual impairments by providing services that promote independence, education, and inclusion. Our disability services are designed to reduce barriers and ensure that people with visual impairments have the opportunity to participate fully in society.
Assistive Technology and Devices
Provision of white canes for independent mobility, assessment of assistive technology needs, guidance on use and maintenance of assistive devices, and information and referrals for specialised technologies as they become available.
Orientation and Mobility Support
Teaching safe use of white canes, improving independent navigation skills, and promoting confidence in moving within homes, schools, workplaces, and communities.
Education Support
Educational guidance and referrals, support in accessing accessible learning materials, collaboration with schools, teachers and parents, and advocacy for inclusive education.
Skills Development
Training in entrepreneurship, financial literacy, vocational skills, computer and digital literacy, and life skills that improve independence and employment opportunities.
Welcome
A welcome message
Welcome to the Manicaland Visually Impaired Association. Our organisation was founded with one clear purpose: to create lasting opportunities for visually impaired people to achieve independence, dignity, and economic security. We recognised that many talented individuals continue to face unnecessary barriers simply because they lack access to resources, employment, and inclusive support. MVIA was established to change that reality. By investing in sustainable livelihoods, education, advocacy, and community empowerment, we aim to build a future where visually impaired people are recognised not for their limitations, but for their abilities, talents, and contributions. Whether you are a potential partner, donor, volunteer, or community member, we invite you to join us in creating a more inclusive Zimbabwe where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we can transform lives and build a future where disability is never a barrier to opportunity.
Presence
Where we work
Based in Rusape — our only office — with programme coverage across Manicaland.
Base of operations
MVIA Head Office — Rusape
Our only physical office. Programmes across Manicaland are coordinated from this base in Rusape.
- Stand Number 1928, Tsanzaguru, Rusape, Zimbabwe
- +263 77 329 5111
Manicaland coverage
Areas we serve
We do not have branch offices in these districts. Work there is coordinated from Rusape through outreach, partnerships, and referrals.
- Mutare
- Nyanga
- Chipinge
- Chimanimani
- Buhera
- Makoni
Get involved
Choose how you want to help
You can support our mission by partnering with us, making a donation, volunteering, sponsoring a project, or advocating for disability inclusion.
Donate
Your gift helps create opportunities for visually impaired people to live independent, productive, and dignified lives.
Donate nowVolunteer
Share your time and skills. Explore open roles and join a network committed to inclusion.
VolunteerFundraise & Join
Organise a fundraiser or register your interest in becoming a member of MVIA.
Get startedStay connected
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