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<p>This study investigates the socio-economic challenges encountered by children with disabilities in Rujeko High-Density suburb, Masvingo, Zimbabwe, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a qualitative approach guided by the social model of disability, the research aimed to examine how the pandemic affected access to education, analyse the economic challenges faced by families, and assess changes in social support networks. We employed an illustrative case study design, utilising semi-structured interviews with four children with disabilities and four guardians (<i>n</i> = 8) selected via snowball sampling. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis. Findings reveal that the pandemic exacerbated existing systemic barriers, including a significant digital divide that hindered online learning, increased transportation hurdles, and limited mobility. Families faced heightened economic precariousness, while social isolation negatively impacted the emotional well-being of the children. Participants employed various coping mechanisms, such as seeking peer assistance and utilising public Wi-Fi. The study concludes that the socio-economic hardships faced were not merely a result of individual impairments but were produced by societal failures to provide inclusive infrastructure and support. We recommend that policymakers prioritise the removal of environmental and attitudinal barriers to ensure the rights and well-being of children with disabilities are upheld during future crises.</p>

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Socio-economic circumstances of children with disabilities in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic in Rujeko High Density, Masvingo, Zimbabwe

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2026年5月29日

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  • Kudzai Mwapaura,
  • Witness Chikoko,
  • Ropafadzo Ashley Tome

摘要

This study investigates the socio-economic challenges encountered by children with disabilities in Rujeko High-Density suburb, Masvingo, Zimbabwe, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a qualitative approach guided by the social model of disability, the research aimed to examine how the pandemic affected access to education, analyse the economic challenges faced by families, and assess changes in social support networks. We employed an illustrative case study design, utilising semi-structured interviews with four children with disabilities and four guardians (n = 8) selected via snowball sampling. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis. Findings reveal that the pandemic exacerbated existing systemic barriers, including a significant digital divide that hindered online learning, increased transportation hurdles, and limited mobility. Families faced heightened economic precariousness, while social isolation negatively impacted the emotional well-being of the children. Participants employed various coping mechanisms, such as seeking peer assistance and utilising public Wi-Fi. The study concludes that the socio-economic hardships faced were not merely a result of individual impairments but were produced by societal failures to provide inclusive infrastructure and support. We recommend that policymakers prioritise the removal of environmental and attitudinal barriers to ensure the rights and well-being of children with disabilities are upheld during future crises.