The old adage "Charity begins at home" resonates with the Malawi Council for Disability Affairs' (MACODA) commitment to strengthening its internal capacity, as evident in its recent two-day workshop training at its head office
Focusing on Disability Rights Violation Complaints Handling, the training was facilitated by renowned legal practitioner and disability rights advocate Harry Chikasamba. Staff from MACODA's head office, Bangwe Weaving Factory, and Kamuzu Vocational and Rehabilitation Training Centre units participated in the training, which took place on Monday and Tuesday, setting a strong tone for the new year.
The comprehensive training covered key topics, including understanding disability rights violations, conducting individual disability rights violations investigations and systemic inquiries, disability rights monitoring and research, and data analysis and reporting. Participants also gained insight into MACODA's legal mandate in protecting disability rights as stipulated in the Persons with Disability Act 2024, as well as its critical role in inter-party reporting to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
The facilitator also emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaborations as a catalyst for successful disability rights violation investigations. He highlighted that disability rights issues are intersectional, hence the involvement of other stakeholders.
" You need to work within the Council's jurisdiction and exercise caution when conducting investigations," advised Chikasamba. "Failure to do so will only lead to lawsuits and loss of public trust, ultimately damaging the Council's overall credibility."
The training aimed to enhance staff capacity in handling disability rights violation complaints and promote a culture of inclusivity. The presence of MACODA Director General, George Chiuswa, underscored the Council's commitment to upholding the rights of persons with disabilities.
During the training, the Director General shared valuable insights, alongside the facilitator, on local and international disability rights issues. He also challenged the participants not to be complacent, as it would hinder their work. Instead, he urged them to take Disability Rights issues very seriously.
"As experts in the field of disability rights, you should consider the Persons with Disability Act 2024 as your guiding principle and ensure you are thoroughly familiar with it and other relevant documents such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability (UN CRPD),” highlighted Chiuswa.
By strengthening its staff capacity, MACODA is poised to more effectively promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities in Malawi. The Council plans to roll out similar trainings to its District Managers and other key stakeholders, ensuring that everyone is well-equipped to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities.