LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-President Lazarus Chakwera on Wednesday, November 27, 2024 inaugurated Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA) frag Week.
The MACODA Flag Week aims to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities across the country.
Following the passing of 2024 Persons with Disability Act mandated the rebranding of Malawi Council for the Handicapped to the Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA).
During the launch at Kamuzu Palace in the capital Lilongwe, Chakwera also donated MK2 million towards MACODA’s frag week.
The President assured the nation that his leadership will embrace policies governing people with disabilities.
He however challenged the public and private sector to address gaps that hinder people with disability in accessing various services in the country.
The Malawi leader also observed that people with disability continue facing challenges to access various services which among others include those in the education and health sector.
In her remarks, Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare Jean Sendeza assured MACODA of the ministry’s commitment towards its smooth operation in th country.
Sendeza also said the ministry is committed to working with MACODA in promoting rights of people with disabilities.
The minister therefore applauded President Chakwera for assenting the persons with disabilities act 2024 saying the law which came to operation in April.
“The passing of the law has given the organization a robust framework for protection of rights with disabilities.
“The Minister therefore will make sure that all stakeholders comply to the law towards welfare of people with disabilities in the country,” assured Sendeza.
Echoing the same, MACODA Board Chairperson Alex Dzinkambani also applauded Chakwera for his dedication to advancing the rights of persons with disabilities.
Dzinkambani cited Chakwera’s recent assent to the Pe¹ as a significant milestone, reflecting his commitment to inclusion and empowerment.
Dzinkambani acknowledged ongoing challenges faced by people with disabilities, particularly those with albinism.
He cited barriers to accessing education, justice, and sexual and reproductive health services as key concerns.
“With MACODA, we believe that things will change. Macoda will not tolerate these injustices, and we will address them with your support, Your Excellency,” Dzinkambani said.
Dzimkambani therefore also urged Chakwera’s leadership to allocate additional funding to strengthen Macoda’s operations, including hiring legal practitioners and researchers and acquiring more vehicles and motorcycles to improve service delivery.
President Chakwera hails launch of MACODA and flag week 2024
By Burnett Munthali
President Lazarus Chakwera has expressed his enthusiasm for the unveiling of the Malawi Council for Disability Affairs (MACODA) brand, which coincided with the launch of the 2024 Flag Week. Writing on his official Facebook page, the president highlighted the milestone as a critical step in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities in Malawi.
President Chakwera emphasized that the establishment of MACODA, made possible by the Persons with Disability Act of 2024, marks a new chapter in promoting an inclusive society. “This opens a new chapter in the advancement of fundamental rights of persons with disability in a bid to create an inclusive society where every citizen thrives in all aspects of human life,” he wrote.
With its legislative and policy mandate, MACODA is now empowered to champion the rights of persons with disabilities. It aims to ensure that institutions across the country align with a common agenda to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities.
President Chakwera reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for persons with disabilities. He noted that the government would continue implementing a robust framework that facilitates easy access to education, healthcare, justice, and other essential services for all citizens.
During the event, President Chakwera purchased the first flag, symbolizing his support for the initiative and encouraging Malawians to participate in Flag Week. “I implore all Malawians to follow suit and support this noble cause during the Flag Week,” he stated.
The launch of MACODA and the Flag Week campaign underscores the government’s efforts to foster a society where no one is left behind. As MACODA takes on its new role, Malawians are called to rally behind its mission, ensuring a brighter and more inclusive future for all.
This initiative reflects Malawi’s ongoing strides toward fulfilling its commitment to the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.
