Mchinji Youth with Disabilities Find their Voices through Radio Programs

Inspired by a DRP-funded radio program, members of the Mlonyeni Youth Network met and organized a series of events to bring attention to the needs of the disabled and to stop discrimation

Grace Muonjeza, who is 13, and her classmate James Mussa, who is one year older, attend a small primary school in rural Mchinji, Malawi, and they used to endure taunts from fellow pupils over their hearing impairments. Living in Maliwane village, they thought the insults were just part of rural life.

Then, in February, they learned about a radio program on their community station that focused on the rights of the disabled and other marginalized youth.

“We were not aware that we had such rights. Living in a rural area, we thought it was normal to be insulted in that way,” Grace said. “Thanks to Mudzi Wathu Radio for standing with youth like us by putting out messages to the community. These programs have helped defend our rights.”

Grace, who is hearing-impaired, said until the radio program she didn't realize she had rights.

Now Grace and James, say they know where to report discrimination, to school authorities, and feel ready to speak up, thanks to the radio programs supported by Developing Radio Partners.

The broadcasts on the community radio station prompted broader action, too.

“To be honest, the radio programs aired on Mudzi  Wathu Radio over the past two months have opened our eyes as young people in this area,” said Mlonyeni Youth Network Chairperson Billiat Kasimbi. “We felt it was necessary to take action and complement the radio’s efforts in spreading messages about marginalized youth, who often face challenges such as discrimination, limited access to social protection, and inadequate health and education services.”

Youth leaders met in early February at Mlonyeni School, bringing together 26 representatives from six clubs to plan road shows. Over two days they visited 11 locations with stage dramas and dances, urging each community to end stigma against youth with disabilities and ensure equal access to education, health services, and decision-making. The youth organizers say more than 2,000 youth attended these events.

A local non-profit, Community Initiative for Social Empowerment, (CISE) supplied a 2-ton truck and fuel so that the road shows could visit all 11 sites. 

CISE executive director Davis Damson says more road shows on this topic are planned.  “We have been working hand in hand with DRP-trained youth reporters at Mudzi Wathu radio station and they are the ones making our job so simple as an NGO. The programs they air benefit a lot of young people across our society and this is why we are very much eager to support young people’s programs because we know that in so doing we will make a brighter future for our youth.”

CISE Executive Director Davis Damson speaks to attendees at one of the 11 road show events in Mchinji District of central Malawi.