By Mphatso M’bang’ombe
The Federation of Disability Organisations in Malawi (Fedoma) has called on the media to play an active role in promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.
Speaking at a media training session in Mponela, Dowa District, Fedoma Executive Director Simon Munde reiterated the need to raise awareness of disability rights, particularly the provisions of the Disability Act, which serves as a key legal instrument for safeguarding these rights.
Munde highlighted the media as a critical ally in advancing disability rights and challenging negative perceptions that affect persons with disabilities.
“There are still many negative attitudes in our communities, where persons with disabilities are viewed as unproductive. By working closely with the media, we believe such harmful perceptions can be changed through positive and accurate reporting,” he said.
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He also pointed out the importance of journalists understanding disability issues and reporting responsibly, highlighting both challenges and success stories from communities.
“Journalists must listen to the ground to expose injustices and harmful practices affecting persons with disabilities. At the same time, they should identify and showcase positive stories that demonstrate their potential and contributions,” Munde said.
The training was part of a project supported with approximately $1.3 million (K2.2 billion) aimed at promoting self-reliance among beneficiaries.
“This project will economically empower youths with disabilities and refugees, enabling them to lead independent, self-reliant lives. Agriculture offers vast opportunities, and we want to ensure no one is left behind,” he said.
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One participant, Sibongire Zgambo, a journalist with Zodiak Broadcasting Station, said the training underlined the importance of accurate reporting on disability issues.
She added that journalists play a significant role in shaping public perceptions and that responsible reporting can help break stigma and discrimination while promoting inclusion.
Fedoma, in partnership with Salama Africa and the Malawi Council for Disability Affairs, is implementing the project with funding from the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa.
The initiative targets young people with disabilities and refugees across all three regions of the country, enabling them to participate actively in various agricultural value chains.
The training brought together journalists from media houses in the Central, Northern, and Southern regions.
