By Trinity Kaphamtengo, Dowa
A project that addresses the pressing issue of Intimate Partner Violence, Pamodzi Kuthetsa Nkhanza (PKN), says it aims to improve the livelihoods of persons with disabilities by addressing gaps in the Disability Act of 2024 through a newly developed position paper.
Among other priorities, the position paper calls for the prohibition of cruel and degrading treatment, improved access to justice, and increased public awareness of the rights and realities of persons with disabilities.
Executive Director for HRWGDM, Stella Nkhonya, said this at a stakeholder meeting in Dowa District.
Nkhonya explained that the meeting was organised to discuss the proposals outlined in the position paper, which stem from identified shortcomings in the 2024 Disability Act.
Hajira Ali, a member of the Network for Girls and Women with Disabilities, said women and girls with disabilities face compounded challenges due to the intersection of gender and disability.
However, Ali expressed hope that stakeholders would act on the position paper’s recommendations, which include ensuring equal access to opportunities, decent employment, and public infrastructure designed to universal accessibility standards.
PKN is implemented by a consortium comprising the Women Legal Resources Centre (WOLREC), Human Rights for Women and Girls with Disabilities in Malawi (HRWGDM), and the Girls Empowerment Network (GENET).
