In Chikwawa district, as in many other regions of Malawi, women with disabilities and special needs face significant economic challenges and social exclusion. According to the Malawi National Statistical Office (2018), about 6.3% of the Malawian population lives with a disability, with women disproportionately affected. These women often struggle to access income-generating opportunities and face systemic discrimination that further restricts their ability to achieve economic independence.
This project aims to address the economic challenges faced by persons living with disabilities, those with special needs (including women living with HIV/AIDS), and other vulnerable women in Chikwawa. Their limited access to economic opportunities is a key issue. A report by Disability Rights Watch (DRW) in 2020 highlights that approximately 12% of women in Chikwawa have disabilities or special needs, and they frequently encounter social exclusion and discrimination, further impeding their path to economic empowerment. The project focuses on overcoming these barriers and promoting greater inclusion for this marginalized group
Project Activities:
- Construction of Animal Housing (Kraal):
Build safe and durable kraals (animal shelters) to provide secure housing for livestock, ensuring their health and well-being.
- Procurement and Establishment of Livestock Enterprises:
Supply livestock (such as goats, chickens, or cows) and provide the necessary resources to establish sustainable livestock-based businesses for participants.
- Training in Livestock Management:
Deliver hands-on, practical training in livestock farming, covering essential aspects like animal care, breeding, feeding, disease control, and overall farm management.
- Creation of Support Groups and Networks:
Facilitate the formation of peer support groups and networks among women, fostering knowledge-sharing, mutual support, and collaboration to strengthen their businesses and personal development.
- Ongoing Monitoring and Support:
Implement regular follow-ups and provide technical support to ensure the success of livestock enterprises, addressing challenges and offering guidance where needed.
Project Goals:
- Establish Sustainable Livelihoods for 50 Women and Their Families:
Provide the tools, resources, and knowledge necessary for 50 women living with disabilities or special needs to create lasting income streams through livestock farming.
- Economic Empowerment and Financial Independence:
Enable these women to become economically self-sufficient, empowering them to support themselves and their families through stable, income-generating activities.
- Promote Social Inclusion:
Integrate marginalized women into the local community, reducing stigma and fostering inclusion by involving them in economic and social activities.
- Encourage Environmentally Sustainable Livestock Practices:
Promote environmentally friendly livestock rearing methods that prioritize sustainability, ensuring long-term benefits for both the women and the environment.
Agriculture 