CAPE TOWN – A group of people gathered at the Nyanga Library in Nyanga during the launch of the Sello Mangwana Book Club for Disability on Friday 6 March.
The club mainly focuses on people living with disabilities. The event was organised by Nyanga activist Sello Mangwana, in partnership with the library.
Mangwana described the initiative as the first of its kind in Nyanga and said the club was open to everyone.
“I want to create a safe space for people living with disabilities where they can share their experiences. The main aim is to promote reading and give them an opportunity to tell their stories,” said Mangwana.
Members plan to publish
He added that within six months the club hoped to publish a book featuring short stories written by members.
“Each person will write his or her story, which will be published in a book.”
He said the club would officially start meeting on 10 March.
“We will meet twice a month, during the second and fourth weeks of the month, from 10:00 to 11:30. Attendance is free of charge,” explained Mangwana.
‘Let’s be visible and vocal’
Former ward 38 councillor and founder of Disability Rights Matter, Luvuyo Zondani, who is also living with a disability, told the gathering that being disabled was not a curse. He urged people living with disabilities to be strong and stand up for their rights.
“You must not be ashamed of yourselves. You must fight for your rights. Make sure that local councillors serve the needs of disabled people. Let’s be visible and vocal. We don’t need people to speak for us. We need to tell our own stories,” said Zondani.
Transport challenges remain
One of the members of the club, Michael Mtandana, said transport remained one of the biggest challenges for people living with disabilities.
He said public transport was not suitable for them and added that they wanted to be recognised and supported by the community.
