October is Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (SBH) Awareness Month, a time when communities across the globe unite to shine a light on these conditions. In Zimbabwe, the message carries unique urgency: thousands of children and adults live with SBH, often facing barriers in healthcare, education, and employment.
The Spina Bifida Association of Zimbabwe (SHAZ); a national organization dedicated to advocacy, support, and empowerment has become a beacon of hope, working tirelessly to ensure that disability rights are recognized as human rights.
Why Awareness Matters
- Healthcare challenges: Access to neurosurgical care, continence management, and rehabilitation remains limited in Zimbabwe. Many families shoulder the burden with little systemic support.
- Stigma and exclusion: Misconceptions about disability often lead to discrimination in schools, workplaces, and communities.
- Prevention opportunities: Mandatory folic acid fortification in staple foods could significantly reduce new cases of spina bifida.
What Needs to Change
| Challenge | Impact | Needed Action |
|---|---|---|
| Limited folic acid fortification | Higher risk of neural tube defects | Mandatory fortification of maize meal & flour |
| Healthcare gaps | Delayed surgeries, poor outcomes | Train more neurosurgeons, expand rehab centres |
| Stigma & lack of awareness | Social exclusion, school dropouts | Public education campaigns |
| Cost of care | Families face financial strain | Government & NGO support for assistive devices |
Upcoming Event: Run for Hope Charity Run & Walk
We are happy to announce that SHAZ will be hosting a Run for Hope Charity Run & Walk in commemoration of World Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus Day 2026.
📅 Date: Sunday, 22 November 2026 📍 Venue: Prince Edward Grounds ⏰ Time: 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM
We warmly invite all our beneficiaries, parents, and caregivers to join us for this special event.
♿ Everyone is welcome, especially wheelchair user participants!
Get more information from www.myshaz.org