Mzudo Calls for Increased Support for People with Disabilities

By Blessings Kaumda……..

The Mzuzu Disability Organization (MZUDO) has expressed concern over the lack of sufficient financial support for people with disabilities, warning that this gap hinders national development.

Speaking in an interview on Wednesday at St. Andrews CCAP in Mzuzu, MZUDO Project Officer Wonderful Phiri emphasized the need to include people with disabilities in social programs and climate change initiatives.

Phiri noted that while programs such as the Social Cash Transfer are designed to support marginalized groups, they often fall short in meeting the additional financial demands faced by people with disabilities.

“Social programs aim to improve lives, but for people with disabilities, a significant portion of the funds is spent on essential items such as crutches and hearing aids, reducing the overall impact of the assistance,” Phiri explained.

He also stressed the importance of considering people with disabilities when distributing relief aid, as many require extra care and rely on guardians for daily support.

“Without additional funds, the assistance received is often insufficient, as both the individual with a disability and their guardian depend on it,” he added.

Phiri further warned that excluding people with disabilities from beneficiary lists has severe consequences. He urged local authorities and community leaders to prioritize their inclusion in financial aid and relief distributions.

Chibavi West Senior Block Leader Josiah Ngala criticized local authorities for failing to incorporate people with disabilities into key social programs.

“Social programs should benefit all vulnerable groups, but those responsible for distribution frequently overlook people with disabilities, leaving them without much-needed support,” Ngala said.

He pointed out that many people with disabilities in his area remain excluded from government assistance, limiting their access to essential resources.

Alice Mwale, a representative from the Mzimba North District Social Welfare Office, acknowledged that additional financial support would be a significant relief but cautioned that implementation would take time.

“It is true that the needs of people with disabilities differ from those of others, but putting these measures in place requires proper planning,” Mwale stated.

Faston Bwanali, Acting Director of the Ebenezer Community Development (ECOD) Organization, echoed the call for increased support, saying the issue has long been overlooked.

“As ECOD, we fully support this initiative. Addressing the needs of people with disabilities is crucial, and organizations must step up to ensure their inclusion,” Bwanali said.

MZUDO is currently working on the inclusion of women with disabilities in social and climate change programs through funding from the Disability Rights Fund.