Humbulani Munyai from Nancefield in Musina strongly believes that the time has come for disabled people to stop depending solely on social grants from the government for survival. Munyai, who has been blind since childhood, wears different hats as a farmer and entertainer. Despite his disability, he works hard to realise the goals he had set in his life.
Munyai says people should treat disabled like normal people. "I don't need people's sympathy. Look at me. I am blind, but my mind is not blind. I am able to think constructively and make decisions on my own. My mind is razor-sharp, and I can reason better than those who claim to be perfect."
Munyai has two successful Tshivenda albums to his name. He says that he saved the money he had made from his CD sales to start his own farming business. "I used the money to buy four goats and two sheep, which I hope to grow into a big herd in the near future. I have a small plot in Campbell, which I plan to extend into a bigger farm when resources allow it. I am also contributing to the local economy, as I have employed a worker who stays at the plot and looks after my goats and sheep for me."
He adds that, although he visualises a bright future for himself in the farming sector, he still has challenges that are slowing down his success. "I have already proven to myself that I am ready to work, but I will need some help to fully realise my dreams. The small plot on which I am operating does not have [a] water supply. I have to hire transport to ferry water containers for my goats and sheep and this costs me dearly, because it is a weekly exercise. I would be very grateful if I can find someone who can drill a borehole for me. I will pay them back if I have to, even if it has to be in small amounts. I also need a proper fence, so that my sheep and goats can be safe at all times."
Munyai encourages other disabled people to come up with self-development initiatives to improve their lives. "Life is too short and each one of us must make sure to leave a legacy behind in this world."