The Minister of Gender, Community Development, and Social Welfare Jean Sendeza has urged people in the country to collaborate in ending discrimination against people with disabilities.
She made this call today in Lilongwe during the opening of the World Disability Forum, organized by World Vision International.
Sendeza urged the public to ensure that people with disabilities are treated well and have full participation in all developmental activities.
The Minister also described such forums as important platform as they provide an opportunity to discuss global issues affecting people with disabilities and finding effective solutions.
“This forum will give us a chance as a country to learn from other countries about their approaches to issues concerning persons with disabilities. Earlier this year in Geneva, we reviewed our progress and challenges regarding persons with disabilities and received recommendations.
“I believe this forum will ensure that these recommendations are addressed and that we are in line with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities,”.
“The time has come for everyone to join hands and support organizations like World Vision International in making sure that people with disabilities are fully included in all aspects of development,” she urged.
Director of Operations at World Vision Malawi, Charles Chimombo, stated the event aims at promoting a mindset change in disability issues.
“We expect participants from various countries to share their experiences on promoting the well-being of children with disabilities. World Vision’s main goal is to promote the well-being of children, particularly the most vulnerable, which includes those living with disabilities,” he stated.
The forum has brought together delegates from Zimbabwe, South Africa, Lesotho, Mozambique, the USA, and New Zealand, among others and will run until July 19, 2024.
About the Author
Martin Mbewe is a journalist and Development Communications Specialist. He is a Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) RLC-SA alumnus and currently works as a Communications and Programmes Coordinator at Tingathe Malawi. With experience in development communication and writing stories for print, radio, TV, and online media, Martin is passionate about change and writing on topical issues concerning Malawians and beyond. Previously, he worked as a current affairs reporter at the Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) and held communication roles with Cure International and the Ministry of Agriculture's Communications Branch. Martin believes in the power of effective communication to drive positive change and improve the lives of individuals and communities, especially those facing social and economic challenges.