The integration of persons with disabilities in municipal empowerment programmes: Lepelle-Nkumpi Municipal Area

Background: Despite South African government introducing anti-discrimination policies, persons with disabilities experience exclusion in municipal economic programmes and face disparities in participating in economic and social initiatives. Aim: This study aims to investigate the integration of persons with disabilities within economic empowerment programmes in Lepelle-Nkumpi Municipal Area. Methods: The study adopted a qualitative approach with in-depth interviews conducted with 15 participants within an area of Lepelle-Nkumpi Local Municipality (LNLM). Data were analysed through thematic content analysis and ATLAS.ti. Results: The findings revealed that disability integration in local government is constrained by inadequate disability promotion; poor understanding of persons with disabilities; deficient representation of persons with disabilities; limited recruitment; non-participation in local economic development forums; and capacity constraints. Conclusion: Municipalities are unable to integrate persons with disabilities in the implementation programmes and policies because of fragmented knowledge on disability. Contribution: The study is expected to add to knowledge on disability inclusion in local government. It aims to support the participation of persons with disabilities in decision-making and empowerment, leading to better governance and greater social justice.