Living With Disabilities in Windhoek: An Investigation Into Incidents And Forms of Discrimination Against People Living With Disabilities

ABSTRACT 

The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the magnitude of discrimination or abuse committed against people with disabilities in the city of Windhoek, with special attention to exploring the general perceptions held by people regarding this phenomenon. Incidence levels of discrimination or abuse and the forms in which they manifest themselves were also explored, including health beliefs (superstitions) supposedly espoused by certain cultural groups which attribute disability to bad luck or curse. The study used descriptive and exploratory research designs with qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study results reflected that despite policy interventions, complemented by awareness campaigns to sensitize people on issues of disability, discrimination and abuse against people with disabilities are prevalent. These discriminatory and abusive practices are endemic in schools, at workplaces, within family circles and in the community at large. Both victims of disabilities, men and women, old and young, have in one way or another, been exposed to incidents of discrimination or abuse in the four social environments identified in the study. It has been recommended that the government should commission a study to evaluate the effectiveness of the implementation of the policies on disability. The results of the study could give effect to the review of those policies that are not meeting their intended or desired goals and objectives.