By Jones Gadama
President Arthur Peter Mutharika’s vision of an inclusive and caring Malawi came to life today as his hardworking and passionate Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare, Honourable Mary Thom Navicha MP, officially opened the 2026 International Observance Week in style.
The high-profile week, being commemorated from 21st to 27th September 2026, has put Malawi on the global map for championing the rights of persons with disabilities.
The week incorporates the International Day of Sign Languages, marked every 23rd September, a day set aside to celebrate sign languages and amplify calls for deaf people to be fully included in national development.
Speaking with authority and compassion at the opening ceremony, Hon. Navicha – who has won admiration across the country for her tireless work ethic and hands-on approach to issues affecting vulnerable groups – delivered a powerful message of inclusion.
The Minister, popularly known for not leaving any stone unturned, challenged stakeholders, NGOs, development partners and local communities to double their efforts in building a Malawi where persons with disabilities, especially the deaf community, are not just spectators but active players in social and economic life.
This is exactly the Malawi President Mutharika has been preaching – a Malawi for all, where transformation leaves no one behind.
“Under the dynamic leadership of His Excellency President Prof. Arthur Peter Mutharika, the Ministry remains fully committed to working with all stakeholders and communities to promote the rights, dignity and welfare of persons with disabilities and ensure that no one is left behind,” Navicha declared to thunderous applause.
Observers say Navicha’s performance in the ministry continues to reflect the Mutharika administration’s serious commitment to social protection and inclusive governance.
Since her appointment, she has been on the ground, championing women, children and persons with disabilities with unmatched zeal.
The 2026 International Observance Week is expected to feature awareness campaigns on sign language, community engagements and advocacy for disability-inclusive policies.
