Alinafe is a girl with multiple disabilities. She has Cerebral Palsy and physical disability. Her Story of Change. “Before I joined WAG Disability Rights Village Savings and Loan (VSL) group in area 23, my parents used to lock me inside the house. I depended entirely on others and had no means of earning an income. Because with my condition, I was regarded as non-productive and useless. Many people saw me as a burden because I am a girl with a disability,” says Alinafe Dama aged 24years.

Today, Alinafe’s life is taking a different direction. Through the Advancing Human Rights, Economic Justice and Social Inclusion of Women and Girls with Disabilities initiative implemented by WAG Disability Rights with support from IM Swedish Development Partner Southern Africa, women and girls with disabilities are strengthening their livelihoods through backyard gardening and local chicken rearing. The initiative builds on existing Village Savings and Loan (VSL) groups, creating additional opportunities for members to generate income and improve their economic well-being. Working together, the women and girls with disabilities have successfully started harvesting vegetables, which they are now selling within their community.

For Alinafe, who serves as chairperson of the group after being empowered the proceeds from the vegetable sales represent more than income. She plans to use her share to revive her small sausage-making business, which became dormant due to limited capital.

“I want to restart my business so that I can support myself, meet my daily needs and eventually build my own house,” she says.

Alinafe’s journey reflects the broader impact of the initiative. Women and girls with disabilities who were once excluded from economic opportunities are now building livelihoods, contributing to their households and shaping a future of greater independence and dignity. The groups will eventually be trained into cooperatives. We are grateful to IM Swedish Development Partner Southern Africa support.