About SAVIPA
Empowering Visually Impaired People Since 2002
South Africa Visually Impaired People’s Association was founded to support blind and partially sighted people in rural KwaZulu-Natal through rehabilitation, education, disability awareness, independent living skills and community-based empowerment.
Registered NPO & PBO serving visually impaired communities in KwaZulu-Natal.
Our Story
A Community Organisation Built Around Independence and Empowerment
South Africa Visually Impaired People’s Association was founded in February 2002 to respond to the needs of marginalized blind and partially sighted people in rural KwaZulu-Natal. The organisation was developed by Ms. Bawinile Zungu, a visually impaired woman, together with other persons with disabilities who shared a commitment to creating practical support, awareness and opportunity within their communities.
Today, SAVIPA continues to focus on improving the lives of blind and partially sighted people through rehabilitation, education, disability awareness, independent living skills and socio-economic empowerment.
Mission & Vision
Guided by Independence, Equality and Community Empowerment
SAVIPA works towards the full independence and equalisation of opportunities for persons with visual impairment by providing disability education, awareness, rehabilitation, literacy services, life skills and economic empowerment programmes.
Our Vision
To improve the quality of life of persons with visual impairment by promoting independence, self-reliance, equal opportunities and access to coordinated support services.
Our Mission
To empower blind and partially sighted people in urban and rural communities through community-based rehabilitation, education, HIV/AIDS awareness, self-acceptance and independent living.
Our Goal
To deliver high-impact, cost-effective and disability-competent capacity-building programmes for people in KwaZulu-Natal.
Our Values
The Principles Behind Our Work
SAVIPA is committed to long-term sustainability, social justice, empowerment and the belief that blind and partially sighted people can actively contribute to community development.
Independence
Helping blind and partially sighted people develop the skills and confidence needed to live more independently.
Empowerment
Creating opportunities for people with visual impairment to grow, participate and take charge of their lives.
Social Justice
Promoting fair access, equal opportunity and greater inclusion for blind and partially sighted people.
Education
Supporting access to basic education, adult education, literacy and skills development.
Sustainability
Working with efficiency and long-term sustainability so that programmes can continue serving the community.
Community
Building stronger communities through awareness, support, advocacy and disability-inclusive development.
Our Journey
More Than Two Decades of Community Support
From its beginnings in 2002 to its current rehabilitation and community-based support programmes, SAVIPA continues to serve blind and partially sighted people across rural KwaZulu-Natal.
2002
The organisation was founded to respond to the needs of blind and partially sighted people in rural KwaZulu-Natal.
2012
SAVIPA served 223 beneficiaries through institutional and community-based rehabilitation programmes.
2022
The organisation was formally registered as a Non-Profit Organisation and continued supporting beneficiaries after the impact of COVID-19.
Today
SAVIPA currently supports 90 beneficiaries through institutional and community-based rehabilitation services.
Leadership
Founded Through Lived Experience and Community Commitment
SAVIPA was developed by Ms. Bawinile Zungu, a visually impaired woman who worked together with other persons with disabilities to address the needs of marginalized blind and partially sighted people in rural KwaZulu-Natal.
The organisation is membership-based and guided through Annual General Meetings, where an Executive Committee is elected. Its leadership includes blind and partially sighted people, community representatives and co-opted members with critical skills needed by the organisation.
Get Involved
Join Us in Building a More Inclusive Future
Your support helps SAVIPA continue providing rehabilitation, education, disability awareness, independent living skills and empowerment programmes for blind and partially sighted people in KwaZulu-Natal.