What Does It Mean to Be Inclusive?
Inclusion is not just about letting someone be present where others are not at all. It is about inviting them in to be part of others or to be part of the process. In essence it is about listening to their voice showing that their views matters as well thus making sure they have what they need to join fully. Building inclusive communities in Africa means making sure no one young, old, or disabled is left behind.
Think about a classroom in Njube Bulawayo. A girl named Tendai uses a wheelchair due to her disability. Inclusion in such ascenario means the school builds a small ramp so she can enter the classroom without any challenges. It does not stop there the teacher also asks Tendai to lead a group activity as a means of ensuring she is part of the whole class and is treated that way. Her friends wait for her when she moves slowly in her wheelchair on their way back home.
Another example is a church in Mutare' Chikanga suburb. An elderly man named Sekuru Mbire cannot hear well. Someone should sit next to him and speaks clearly ensuring that she follows the sermons and also sings when the whole cngregation does. In the spirit of inclusion it means the church buys a small microphone Sekuru then feels welcome not like a burden meaninh he will enjoy going to church evdery sunday.
Inclusion ideally helps everyone in the society. When we include others we learn new things and we become good at the same time kinder. Our community becomes a bigger table where there is room for all.