People with disabilities have urged community development committees and duty-bearers to create policies that will ensure a fair representation in decision-making positions at district level.
Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi Karonga Chapter executive member Chafika Kondowe made the call on Tuesday at Hangalawe Teachers’ Development Centre during a day-long training on human rights, disability-related laws and policies on mining and extractives governance organised by Justice and Peace Desk of Karonga Diocese.
He said most development committees shun minority groups such as people with disabilities in various committees, thereby denying them a chance for their voices to be heard on the implementation of several government programmes.
“We have noted that most infrastructures and services lack availability, accessibility, adaptability and acceptability to people with disabilities. This is because we are not involved in the planning stages,” said Kondowe.
Iponga Area Development Committee chairperson Edward Chitete agreed with Kondowe, saying there is indeed a need to increase the representation of people with disabilities.
“As chairperson, I have noted the flaws and I will facilitate changes to make sure that we increase their membership to enhance inclusiveness and participation in decision-making,” he said.
Justice and Peace project officer Obert Mkandawire advised the group to use the knowledge gained and demand clarification from duty-bearers whenever they feel that their human rights have been violated.
