By Zenak Matekenya

Dedza, April 1, Mana: Human Rights of Women and Girls with Disabilities (HRWGD), says limited knowledge of the law and its implementation leaves women and girls with disabilities vulnerable to violence.

Stella Nkhonya, Executive Director for the organization, made the remarks on Monday in Dedza at a two-day trainer of trainers Pamodzi Kuthetsa Nkhanza (NPK) Consortium advocacy workshop, which is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) of the UK government.

Nkhonya said that although the law mandates inclusivity, participants reported facing barriers, including access to quality education, denial of employment and social protection benefits.

“Enlightenment on key legal provisions that protect the rights of women and girls with disabilities is crucial, for this helps us to advocate for our rights.

“From here we are expected to go back and promote awareness among fellow women and girls with disability for action,” said Nkhonya.

A member of Network for Girls and Women with Disabilities in Malawi, Scoder Louis said the workshop empowered participants to hold duty bearers accountable.

She said it is important for women and girls with disabilities to continue advocating for the implementation of the Persons with Disability Act.

“The Act is protecting us. The skills acquired here will help us to effectively advocate for its full implementation to realize our rights,” she said.

The workshop attracted at least 30 participants from across the country.

PKN Consortium comprises of Women’s Legal Resources Centre, Girls Empowerment Network, and Human Rights of Women and Girls with Disabilities.

It aims to promote the welfare of persons with disabilities in the country through the identification of key areas of the Disability Act that require advancement to ensure effective implementation.