By: Burnett Munthali
Vice President Justice Dr Jane Ansah SC formally inaugurated the 2025 MACODA Flag Week in Lilongwe, emphasising that the occasion represents more than ceremonial formalities but a significant step towards creating an inclusive society.
She welcomed all attendees, noting that the event provides an opportunity for government, civil society, and development partners to advance practical measures for persons with disabilities.
Highlighting this year’s theme, which focuses on championing disability rights through active reporting and decisive action, Dr Ansah stressed the need to move beyond rhetoric and implement initiatives that produce tangible outcomes.
The Vice President underscored that Malawi’s development agenda must include every citizen, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, or disability, ensuring equitable access to the benefits of national growth.
She lauded recent legislative and policy milestones, including the enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Act of 2024 and the adoption of the National Disability Policy, describing these frameworks as a foundation for meaningful inclusion.
However, Dr Ansah cautioned that real progress depends on diligent execution and effective enforcement to translate policies into measurable improvements for persons with disabilities.
She directed local councils to ensure that public funding, including the five billion kwacha Constituency Development Fund and allocations for youth and women’s empowerment, directly supports people with disabilities.
The Vice President emphasised that disabled citizens must be considered as primary beneficiaries, rather than receiving assistance as an afterthought in development programmes.
Turning to education, she stressed that free secondary education must benefit learners with disabilities, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, enabling them to access and remain in school.
Dr Ansah also highlighted the Farm Input Subsidy Programme, which is set to support approximately 1.1 million households, including those with members living with disabilities, urging authorities to ensure full inclusion of eligible beneficiaries.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, she stressed that protecting the rights and freedoms of persons with disabilities is essential for national development and the Malawi 2063 vision.
She called for enhanced investment in MACODA initiatives, specifically citing the Bangwe Weaving Factory, urging ministries and agencies to support the enterprise to sustain livelihoods and generate revenue for persons with disabilities.
Dr Ansah noted that accessible public infrastructure is vital, warning that laws and policies alone are insufficient if public spaces continue to present barriers.
She urged the Ministry of Transport and Public Works, alongside the National Construction Industry Council, to prioritise accessibility in all public facilities.
Concluding her address, Dr Ansah thanked attendees and officially declared the 2025 MACODA Flag Week open, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring that Malawi’s persons with disabilities are actively included in the nation’s development journey.
