By Yamikani Sabola

Mzuzu, May 28, Mana: St. John of God Hospitaller Services is set to roll out a project aimed at enhancing the rights, inclusion and protection of children and youths with disabilities in Mzimba North.

Project Coordinator for St. John of God Hospitaller Services, Zakariya Kauteka revealed this on Wednesday during a District Executive Committee meeting

He said the 36 months’ project will be implemented in Traditional Authorities Mthwalo, Jalavikuba, Chindi and Mpherembe.

Kauteka said the project will empower care givers with knowledge and skills to transform the way children with disabilities are cared for, and easing the children’s access to modern health care.

He added that the project is challenging long held myths about disabilities while encouraging parents, primary school teachers and care givers to seek professional medical care for children and youths with disabilities.

“The project is called Enhancing the Rights, Inclusion and Protection of Children and Youths with Disabilities. Among others, the project will provide trainings for caregivers, parents or guardians and teachers, equipping them with necessary tools to play an active role in rehabilitation of children with disabilities.

“St. John of God Hospitaller Services is committed to strengthening the capacity of care givers and advocating for increased access to disability specialized services, ensuring that no child with disability is left behind,” Kauteka said.

He also said the project will see the creation of community based rehabilitation centres to ensure there is easy access to rehabilitation services by children and youths with disabilities.

“The centers will be providing essential services such as physiotherapy and psychosocial support, helping children with disabilities not only to survive but thrive in a more inclusive environment,” he said.

One of the DEC members, Hilda Gondwe from Malawi Council for Disability Affairs hailed the project, saying it will ensure that children with disabilities receive the protection and care they need.

Gondwe added that through the project, St. John of God is paving the way for a more inclusive society where every child, regardless of their abilities, has a chance to live a fulfilling life.

The project will be implemented with funding from Christian Blind Mission International.