Support people with disabilities—Macoda

M

alawi Council for Disability Affairs (Macoda) Mchinji disability officer Master Kachule says people with disabilities in the district continue to face numerous challenges, including lack of essential support and mobility aids.

Speaking in an interview on Tuesday, he said many people with disabilities are living a destitute life due to lack of support.

“People with disabilities have limited access to assistive devices such as wheelchairs and walking frames. Apart from that, many public infrastructures are not disability-friendly,” said Kachule.

He also lamented discrimination and stigma towards people with disabilities.

Group village head Jailosi of Traditional Authority Kazyozyo echoed Kachule’s sentiments that people with disabilities need support to enjoy life just as others.

He urged well-wishers to do more in helping such people, saying many are struggling in the village.

“In my village, there are several people with disabilities who need support. It is difficult for them to walk, work or engage in development activities,” said Jailosi.

Meanwhile, touched by the challenges people with disabilities face, Malawi Against Physical Disabilities in collaboration with Invest in Knowledge organisation, has donated wheelchairs, knee pads, hand pads and toilet seats to people with disabilities in Jailosi Village.

Mchinji district director of health and social services Yohane Mwale has since expressed his gratitude to Invest in Knowledge for helping people with disabilities.

He said: “I urge you to continue looking after people with disabilities.

“I also encourage people with disabilities not to look down on themselves.”

There are at least 5 230 people with disabilities in the district. Out of this figure, 2 775 are female