WAG Disability Rights had the privilege of hosting the IM Swedish Development Partner Southern Africa communications team for a field visit to our project sites in Lilongwe. The visit provided an opportunity to showcase the tangible impact of the Advancing Human Rights, Economic Justice and Social Inclusion of Women and Girls with Disabilities initiative.

The team visited three inspiring right holders whose lives have been transformed through the initiative:

Alinafe Dama, A girl with multiple disabilities whose parents never allowed her to leave the house. Through WAG’s engagement she joined a Village Savings and Loans (VSL) group and is now the breadwinner and chairperson of one of the VSLs in Area 23. Her home also hosts part of the IM backyard gardening initiative.

Mphatso Phiri, A young woman with disabilities who used to beg on the streets and was homeless. WAG constructed a house for her, and she joined VSL in Area 23. She is now one of the right holders of the IM initiative building a life of dignity and independence.

Cynthia Moyo, A brilliant girl born without hands who almost dropped out of school due to financial constraints. Her father, a man with disabilities struggled to support her education. Despite these challenges, Cynthia excelled academically achieving position 2 out of 150 students in her class!

Through the IM goat pass-on scheme, Cynthia is now benefiting economically. The manure from the goats has enabled her to start a backyard garden where she grows and sells vegetables creating a sustainable source of income alongside her goats. She is also an active member of one of the VSLs in Dowa.

The visit highlighted the power of inclusive economic empowerment and the resilience of women and girls with disabilities. Together with IM Swedish Development Partner we are creating lasting change one family one community at a time.