MHRC calls government to operationalize disability trust fund, appoint advisor on disability, enact disability bill
Malawi Human Rights Commission MHRC has called on government to speed the operationalization of disability trust fund to help in cushioning effects of COVID 19 in the lives of people with disabilities
In a statement marking International day for persons with disabilities, MHRC Chairperson Scader Louis says a recent study which the commission conducted showed that persons with disability are still neglected in many socio development areas including disasters and pandemics.
Louis adds that people with disabilities were not consulted in the planning, designing and execution of covid 19 responses, though the pandemic has greatly affected their wellbeing.
The Commission has meanwhile urged concerned stakeholders to mainstream disability affairs in socio development issues
The international day for persons with disabilities is commemorated annually on 3rd December, within the 16 days of Activism against gender based violence.
It seeks to raise awareness on gains to be derived from integration of persons with disabilities in aspects of political, social economic and cultural life.
Meanwhile, MHRC has asked government to fill a vacancy of presidential advisor on disability
Kujaliwa said “having the advisor would ensure that persons with disabilities are taking part in socio economic development of the country.”
President Dr Lazarus Chakwera appointed Overstone Kondowe as presidential advisor for persons with disabilities and albinism.
However, Kondowe was elected as Member of Parliament for Nkhotakota North West in the recent by-elections.
According to Kujaliwa, persons with disabilities are neglected in socio economic development adding the advisor would ensure representation of issues that affect them at the highest level of government.
