By Jones Gadama
Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare Mary Thom Navicha opened the Regional Workshop on the Realisation of the African Disability Protocol with energy and focus on Monday, setting the tone for three days of hard work aimed at improving lives across Southern Africa.
The RAD-P workshop, running from 23 to 25 June 2026 in Lilongwe, has brought together delegates from Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe, representatives of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities, and key development partners.
The goal is clear: share practical experiences, build stronger partnerships, and push for faster ratification, domestication and implementation of the African Disability Protocol so that regional promises become real changes on the ground.
In her opening remarks, Navicha reaffirmed Malawi’s commitment to protecting the rights, dignity and full inclusion of persons with disabilities.
She stressed that this cannot happen through talk alone, but through stronger laws, smarter policies and programmes that actually reach communities. She also urged everyone in the room to work together so that no one is left behind, a message that drew nods from across the hall.
What stood out was Navicha’s personal touch. Instead of staying on the high table, the minister moved through the conference hall, greeting delegates, listening to their stories and taking notes.
She mingled with every participant regardless of country or organization, stopping to chat with OPD leaders from Zambia, disability advocates from Zimbabwe, and local community representatives. That hands-on approach earned her quick praise.
In interviews after the session, participants from Zambia and Zimbabwe commended the minister’s commitment.
One delegate from Lusaka described her as “the kind of leader who listens first and acts second,” while a representative from Harare said her willingness to engage directly showed “genuine dedication to the disability cause.” Many called her a model of servant leadership in government today.
Observers say Navicha’s performance reveals why Malawi’s development agenda is gaining momentum. Her tireless work reflects the vision behind President Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika’s cabinet choices.
The appointment of ministers like Navicha, who show up, work hard and put citizens first, reveals how God inspired the President to select leaders who will truly serve the nation. Her presence at RAD-P is more than ceremonial; it is proof that Malawi is prioritizing inclusion and delivering leadership that connects with people.
As the workshop continues,delegates expect concrete action points on speeding up the Protocol’s implementation.
With Navicha at the forefront, Malawi is positioning itself as a regional example of how political will, when matched with hard work, can advance disability rights.
