The Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA), formerly known as the Malawi Council for the Handicapped (MACOHA), has expressed optimism that people with disabilities in the country will be enhanced with the enactment of the new Persons with Disabilities Act.

MACODA Director General George Chiusiwa made the remarks at Mponela in Dowa during a training session for its key staff members from all districts on the new Persons with Disabilities Act.

Whilst commending World Vision Malawi for its commitment in upholding dignity of persons with disabilities, Chiusiwa described the training as pivotal, emphasizing that it will help to enhance awareness and protection for persons with disabilities in the country.

“This orientation is pivotal in ensuring that our staff are well equipped to implement the provisions of the new Persons with Disabilities Act effectively. The support by World Vision is a testament to the commitment towards upholding the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities in Malawi. It is expected that through such initiatives, there will be enhanced awareness, advocacy, and protection for persons with disabilities across the nation,” he said.

In his words,National Director for World Vision Malawi Francis Dube, commended MACODA for organizing the crucial orientation session.

He assured that World Vision stands ready to collaborate with MACODA and other actors in the disability sector in Malawi.

“World Vision’s support for this orientation workshop underscores our dedication to promoting social justice and equality. We believe that through education, capacity building, and collaborative efforts, we can make significant strides towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all. It was an opportunity to promoting inclusivity and advocating for the rights and well-being of all that are mmarginalized and vulnerable. World Vision aims to enhance the effective implementation of this Act.

“Proper orientation ensures that those responsible for enforcing and advocating for the Act are well-equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills.  It is also within our broader strategy to promote awareness and education about disability rights, while we seek to strengthening partnerships in fostering inclusive development,” he said.

The Persons with Disabilities Act, which was enacted in December 2023, marks a significant milestone as it replaces the Handicapped Persons Act of 1971.

This transition has also led to the establishment of MACODA.

One of the key aspects of the new act is the requirement for handling complaints and conducting investigations into instances of rights violations against persons with disabilities.

The orientation session, facilitated by MACODA in partnership with World Vision, is a testament to the commitment towards upholding the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities in Malawi.

It is expected that through such initiatives, there will be enhanced awareness, advocacy, and protection for persons with disabilities across the nation.