Implementing Organization: Mzuzu Disability Organization (MZUDO)
Funder: Disability Rights Fund (DRF)
Funding Amount: USD 25,000
Implementation Period: January 1 – December 31, 2025
Geographical Focus: Mzuzu District, Malawi

Background

This one-year project aims to enhance the inclusion of women and girls with disabilities in climate change policies, disaster preparedness, and social protection programs, including social cash transfer, housing, and financial inclusion. The initiative advocates for policy change, institutional reform, and the creation of accessible platforms for meaningful participation by Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs).

Key Activities and Achievements (As of July 2025),

1.

Advocacy on Social Cash Transfer & Disability-Related Extra Costs

MZUDO conducted advocacy meetings with the Social Welfare Office and Mzuzu District Council.
Discussions highlighted the extra costs faced by women with disabilities—such as inaccessible transport and lack of assistive devices—often overlooked in the Social Cash Transfer Program.
Result: A working group has been established to review targeting criteria to include disability-related extra costs in program planning.
2.

Engagement on a Disability-Specific Social Cash Transfer Program

High-level meetings held with the Ministry of Social Welfare, district councillors, and development partners.
The proposal to develop a disability-specific cash transfer model gained positive feedback and is now under review by district technical teams.
MZUDO shared case studies showing gaps in current targeting mechanisms.
3.

Financial Inclusion Advocacy

Held consultations with two public financial institutions (including FDH Bank and NBS Bank in Mzuzu).
MZUDO successfully advocated for internal policy review to consider tailored financial products and services for persons with disabilities.
One bank is now piloting priority counter access and is exploring the design of disability-inclusive loan schemes.
4.

Inclusive and Accessible Housing Advocacy

Conducted joint meetings with the District Planning Office, Ministry of Lands, and Social Welfare.
Advocated for incorporation of accessible housing options in local development plans and low-income housing projects.
MZUDO submitted draft recommendations on accessible design standards for upcoming city housing schemes.
5.

Inclusive Climate Change Engagement

Facilitated advocacy sessions with the Department of Climate Change, DoDMA, and Mzuzu City Council.
OPDs were invited to climate action consultations for the first time in the district.
A climate task force was formed with two OPD representatives, including women with disabilities, now participating in district-level planning processes.
6.

Review of Disaster Response Plans

Held a multi-stakeholder session with DoDMA, Mzuzu District Council, and MACODA.
Reviewed the District Shock-Responsive Plan and successfully advocated for the integration of disability-specific disaster preparedness indicators.
OPDs are now involved in quarterly emergency preparedness reviews.
7.

Accessible Early Warning Systems

Conducted focused advocacy with the Department of Disaster Affairs, Meteorological Services, and local radio stations.
Proposed the use of Braille, audio, and pictorial warnings to alert persons with visual and hearing impairments.
Discussions are underway with community radio partners to launch a pilot early warning system accessible to women with disabilities.