MACODA is actively conducting mobile disability rights clinics in various districts in Malawi. These ongoing clinics are aiming at popularizing the Persons with Disabilities Act as well as raising awareness about the rights and the opportunities that are available for persons with disabilities.
“We are moving from one district to another, engaging with persons with disabilities and giving them accurate information on their rights,” Public Relations Officer, Harriet Kachimanga.
In addition to the awareness which MACODA is delivering to communities, it is also receiving complaints from community members and it is ensuring that their voices are well heard and their concerns are taken into account. These clinics serve as a means of educating the community about their rights and empowering people with different disabilities to advocate and never look down on themselves.
A person with a disability, Joseph Matemba expressed hope that the initiative will lead to increased empathy and support towards persons with disabilities.
“For so long, we have really struggled with mistreatment and marginalisation in our communities; this awareness is crucial in highlighting our rights and promoting understanding, respect and inclusion,” he said.
Group Village Head Mpotola attributed the rising cases of injustice against persons with disabilities to the society’s ignorance on rights of persons with disabilities, saying MACODA’s awareness was necessary in his area.
“Many community members lack understanding on how to interact with and support persons with disabilities, leading to unintentional marginalisation and abuse.
So far, MACODA has engaged with communities in Zomba, Mangochi, Nsanje and Chikwawa districts.