Inclusion
We believe every individual deserves equal opportunities and full participation in society.
About Us
About Us
Empowering Ability. Transforming Lives.
Who we are
Empowering Ability. Transforming Lives.
The Manicaland Visually Impaired Association (MVIA) is a registered Private Voluntary Organisation (PVO) dedicated to empowering people with visual impairments through economic empowerment, education, advocacy, assistive technology, and community inclusion. Established in 2026, MVIA was founded on the belief that visual impairment should never be a barrier to opportunity, independence, or a meaningful contribution to society.
Our story
Our story
The Manicaland Visually Impaired Association (MVIA) was established in response to the challenges faced by many people with visual impairments who continue to experience limited access to education, employment, assistive devices, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Our founders recognised that while visual impairment presents unique challenges, the greatest barriers are often social exclusion, discrimination, and the lack of opportunities rather than disability itself. This inspired the creation of an organisation dedicated to promoting independence, dignity, and equal opportunities for people with visual impairments. Since its establishment, MVIA has committed itself to empowering visually impaired people through sustainable livelihood programmes, skills development, assistive technology, advocacy, and community engagement. We work closely with families, communities, government institutions, development partners, and other stakeholders to build a society where everyone is valued and included.
Mission
Our Mission
To empower people with visual impairments through economic empowerment, education, assistive technology, skills development, advocacy, and inclusive community programmes that promote independence, dignity, and equal opportunity.
Vision
Our Vision
To build an inclusive Zimbabwe where every person with a visual impairment has equal access to education, employment, healthcare, assistive technology, and sustainable livelihood opportunities, enabling them to live independent and fulfilling lives.
Principles
Our Core Values
Integrity
We uphold honesty, accountability, transparency, and professionalism in everything we do.
Empowerment
We equip people with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities they need to become self-reliant.
Respect
We value the dignity, rights, and contributions of every individual.
Collaboration
We believe sustainable development is achieved through strong partnerships and community participation.
Excellence
We strive for high standards in service delivery and organisational performance.
Sustainability
We promote long-term solutions that create lasting social and economic impact.
People
Our Leadership Team
The leaders guiding MVIA's mission of inclusion, empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods.
Leadership team
Mr Charles Karichi
Executive Director
Mr Charles Karichi is an accomplished educator, trainer, pastor, entrepreneur, and business practitioner with extensive experience across Zimbabwe and Botswana. Throughout his career, he has served in the corporate sector, non-governmental organisations, the Government of Zimbabwe, and Scripture Union of Zimbabwe. His broad experience in education, leadership, organisational development, and community empowerment provides strategic direction to MVIA as it works to improve the lives of people with visual impairments.
Registration and Legal Status
- Registered name: Manicaland Visually Impaired Association (MVIA)
- Registration Number: PVO 164/26
- Date of Registration: 03 June 2026
- Operating under the Private Voluntary Organisations Act [Chapter 17:05] of Zimbabwe
- Registered Office: Stand Number 1928, Tsanzaguru, Rusape, Zimbabwe
- Postal Address: P. O. Box 146, Rusape, Zimbabwe
As a registered PVO, MVIA is committed to transparency, accountability, good governance, and the responsible management of resources entrusted to the organisation.
Looking Ahead
- Become a leading organisation championing the rights, empowerment, and inclusion of people with visual impairments throughout Zimbabwe
- Expand our reach beyond Manicaland Province by strengthening partnerships
- Develop innovative programmes that increase access to assistive technology, education, skills development, and sustainable livelihoods
- Build a society where disability is recognised as diversity and ability is celebrated
Take action
Join Us
Whether you are a person with a visual impairment, a family member, volunteer, donor, partner, or advocate, we invite you to join us in building a more inclusive Zimbabwe. Together, we can empower ability, create opportunity, and transform lives.