Organisations kept pressure on decision-makers
The Disability Rights Fund traced its support for FEDOMA’s campaign back to 2014. The federation used international disability summits to secure government commitments and later produced a shadow report on progress. Joint advocacy with the albinism association brought the demands to legislators, the executive and independent bodies. Parliament passed the bill in December 2023.
Councils were urged to change services
In August 2024, MACODA director general George Chiusiwa urged local councils to understand their obligations under the new law. At an orientation meeting in Nkhata Bay, he called for accessible infrastructure and resources to adapt public buildings. The ministry organised the meeting with UNDP and the Malawi Human Rights Commission. [3]
Local self-advocacy remained central
Nkhata Bay Disability Forum chair McDwelings Nkhoma welcomed the law’s emphasis on empowerment and its potential to improve social and economic conditions. The meeting connected the national reform with the practical responsibilities of councils, including enabling residents with disabilities to reach public services. [3]