‘People with disabilities need social protection projects’
Sightsavers International disability rights and education specialist Betty Moses says persons with disabilities need social protection interventions to empower them economically.
She said this on Friday at Msiyaludzu in Ntcheu District when the organisation facilitated a goat pass-on programme to four clusters it is working with under its Inclusive Early Childhood Education Project.
Moses said strengthening financial independence for vulnerable households that look after children with disabilities can improve the well-being of persons with disabilities both at home and in school.
“We want to improve inclusive education in the district and to empower parents and guardians of children with disabilities by giving them goats to raise,” she said.
One of the beneficiaries, Flora Tambwala from Alasati II Village, Traditional Authority (T/A) Makwangwala said after receiving five goats in 2021, she is now able to meet her children’s daily needs.
She said: “I have children with disabilities and it was difficult for me to provide for their needs. But the goats I received multiplied and I sold some to buy food and other necessities.
“I now own 26 goats and today I am glad to pass on goats to new beneficiaries.”
Ntcheu district assistant social welfare officer Moses Chilembwe said the interventions are timely as people are desperate for capital and skills to start businesses.
“We are grateful to Sightsavers for empowering people who look after persons with disabilities. If the people take care of the goats, they will improve their socio-economic status,” he said.
