07/09/2025
πΏπ²π€ Chembe MP, Hon CLIFF MPUNDU attending Zambia Federation of Disability Organizations (ZAFOD)Concludes MakeWay Project event as the guest speaker
π¨ CREDIT: Report by Ludia Phiri Ngwadzai ( The Neiborhhood Scoop)
THE Zambia Federation of Disability Organization (ZAFOD) has successfully concluded the 'MakeWay' project in Lusaka province, a five-year program aimed at empowering vulnerable young people to stand up for their rights and improve access to information and services.
The project focuses on breaking down barriers to Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) by applying an intersectional lens.
The MakeWay project has trained over 500 young people with compounded vulnerabilities across 9 health facilities in Lusaka and Ndola, enhancing their overall well-being and behavior in accessing Sexual Reproductive Health Services (SRHS).
Speaking during the closure of the project, ZAFOD Vice President, Jackson Chipalo, emphasized that the inclusion of people with disabilities in all sectors is a human right, not a favor.
"The initiative has enhanced the overall well-being and behavior of young people in accessing Sexual Reproductive Health Services," he said.
Officiating the closure, Hon. Dr. Alex Katakwe, Representative of the Parliamentary Caucus on Disability Inclusion and Rights, called for an increased 2026 budget allocation to issues relating to disabilities.
"The parliamentary caucus on disability inclusion will ensure enhanced advocacy for people with disabilities, and stigma and discrimination does not stand," he emphasized.
Dr. Katakwe also expressed concern over the lack of representation of people with disabilities in Parliament.
Meanwhile, Chembe Constituency Member of Parliament, Clifford Mpundu, advocated for introducing sign language and braille in all Zambian schools to achieve social inclusion.
"Sign language and braille must be introduced in all Zambian schools to achieve social inclusion, and laws that provide a human face when society interacts with people with disabilities without discrimination are necessary," he said.
Dr. Katakwe assured ZAFOD and other stakeholders that the parliamentary caucus remains committed to supporting young people and promoting their rights.
The MakeWay project's conclusion marks a significant milestone in promoting disability inclusion and rights in Zambia.