Celebrating Leadership and Inclusion: Lango Sinkamba’s Inspiring Journey on International Day of Persons with Disabilities

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), celebrated annually on December 3rd, emphasizes the importance of fostering inclusive and sustainable societies where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive. This year’s theme, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,” by the United Nations, is not only timely but also crucial in recognizing the invaluable contributions of persons with disabilities.

In line with this global theme, we had the privilege of speaking with Lango Sinkamba, a trailblazer and the co-founder of Participant Assistive Products Zambia. Lango’s journey is a compelling testament to resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of assistive technology in empowering individuals and communities.

A Journey Rooted in Resilience

Lango’s story begins in the rural areas of Zambia, where access to assistive devices was virtually non-existent. Living life with a disability, Lango navigated childhood without a wheelchair, a tool that many take for granted today. “I crawled my way to school,” he recalled. “I accepted life as it was because I did not know that there were devices designed to make movement easier.”

His determination to get an education eventually led him to a boarding school for children with disabilities. It was there that he encountered a wheelchair for the first time. Although unfamiliar with its mechanics, he immediately recognized its potential to transform lives. However, the wheelchair was a temporary provision from the school, leaving Lango to return to crawling during school breaks. This inconsistent access to mobility aids underscored the pressing need for affordable and sustainable solutions.

Lango’s journey took a significant turn when he moved to the city and owned his first wheelchair. “That moment changed everything,” he said. “It not only improved my mobility but also how I viewed myself and how others interacted with me. It gave me dignity, independence, and opportunities I never thought possible.”

From Personal Struggles to Community Impact

With his newfound mobility, Lango pursued higher education and eventually joined the workforce. However, his experiences fueled a desire to bridge the gap for others facing similar challenges. Over the years, Lango became an advocate for assistive devices, collaborating with Zambia’s Ministry of Health and orthopedic centers to raise awareness about mobility solutions.

His advocacy led him to manage Ottobock, a global brand in assistive technology, and to champion initiatives that made devices accessible to Zambians. During the covid 19  pandemic, the company suffered setbacks and had to leave Zambia.  The people of Zambia became devastated and were constantly reaching out to Lango to find out where they were going to get quality wheelchairs from. He was the go-to guy and they all expected him to have answers. Despite setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lango’s resolve remained unshaken. His passion culminated in a partnership with Participant Assistive Products, a partnership that would start as a conversation on social media. Lango now leads with efforts to revolutionize the assistive technology landscape in Zambia.

A Beacon of Hope for Children with Disabilities.

One of Participant Assistive Products' flagship innovations is the Cub wheelchair, designed specifically for children with disability especially children with cerebral palsy. Unlike generic wheelchairs,  Cub caters to the unique needs of these children, promoting comfort, independence, and community interaction.

“This wheelchair is not just a device—it’s a lifeline,” Lango explained. “It helps children feed, sit, and move comfortably. It allows them to fit into their communities, make friends, and live with dignity.”

Cub wheelchair’s innovative tilt feature makes it ideal for navigating rough terrains, while its sturdy build ensures durability and ease of use. For Lango, it’s a game-changer in empowering children and their families to embrace a better quality of life.

Breaking Barriers with Assistive Technology

Participant Assistive Products is not just about selling wheelchairs; it’s about creating a culture of inclusion. Through comprehensive assessments, ensure that each wheelchair meets the specific needs of its user. Participant also addresses common pitfalls in the market, such as the prevalence of clinic wheelchairs that are ill-suited for outdoor use.

I rely on the Springbok wheelchair from Participant Assistive Products, and it has become an indispensable part of my daily life. Over time, I’ve pushed this chair to its absolute limits, testing its durability, adaptability, and performance in ways most people wouldn’t imagine. Whether navigating rugged outdoor terrains, handling tight indoor spaces, or enduring long, active days, the Springbok has consistently risen to the challenge. Its design and functionality have proven to be not just reliable but empowering, enabling me to maintain my independence and confidence.

“Assistive technology is key to independence, education, and employment,” Lango emphasized. “No one with a disability should be without a suitable device. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity.”

Inspiring Leadership and Representation

As the leader of Participant Assistive Products Zambia, Lango is a role model for countless individuals with disabilities. His message is clear: representation matters. “He who carries a bag of stones feels its weight,” he said, underscoring the importance of involving persons with disabilities in leadership roles.

Lango envisions a future where Participant Assistive Products expands its reach across Zambia’s neighboring countries and beyond, making a meaningful impact throughout Africa. Situated at the heart of southern Africa, Zambia is bordered by ten nations: Angola, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and tiny connections with Burundi and Rwanda.

With its strategic location, the goal is to establish a presence not only in these neighboring countries but also in other African nations, ensuring greater access to mobility solutions across the continent.

By sharing his story, Lango hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams, challenge societal barriers, and lead with confidence. His work extends beyond Zambia, with plans to expand assistive technology solutions to neighboring countries, making a regional impact.

A Vision for the Future

Lango envisions a future where assistive technology is not a privilege but a fundamental right accessible to all who need it. “Education, employment, and independence are unattainable without access to the right tools,” he passionately emphasizes. For Lango, assistive technology is more than just equipment—it is the bridge that connects individuals with disabilities to opportunities, empowerment, and self-reliance.

Under his leadership, the team at Participant Assistive Products is dedicated to dismantling the barriers of discrimination and inequality that persons with disabilities face daily. Their mission extends beyond providing devices; they aim to create a world where everyone, regardless of physical ability, has the means to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

“True inclusion means no one is left behind,” Lango asserts, underscoring his belief that accessible technology is a catalyst for unlocking human potential. His vision is one of a future where all individuals, regardless of their circumstances, have the tools, support, and opportunities they need to live with dignity and achieve their dreams.

A Call to Action

As we celebrate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Lango’s journey is a reminder that inclusion is not just a goal but a responsibility for everyone. Governments, organizations, and individuals must work together to amplify the voices of persons with disabilities, ensure access to assistive technology, and create opportunities for leadership and self-representation.

Join us in supporting this mission. Advocate for policies that prioritize assistive technology, donate to organizations making a difference, or simply start a conversation about inclusion in your community. Together, we can build a world where no one is left behind.

Lango Sinkamba’s story is not just about overcoming challenges; it’s about redefining what’s possible. His leadership, resilience, and unwavering commitment to inclusion serve as a beacon of hope for millions worldwide. This International Day of Persons with Disabilities, let’s honor leaders like Lango by taking action and championing a more inclusive and sustainable future.