Malawi Council for the Handicapped (Macoha) public relations officer Harriet Kachimanga on Monday called upon people with disabilities to utilise various vocational skills to improve their livelihoods.

Speaking after visiting centres of people with disabilities in Paramount Chief Kyungu and Traditional Authority (T/A) Wasambo in Karonga, she said her visit was to appreciate the outcome of vocational trainings which her organisation was offering in the centres as one way of empowering people with disabilities.

Mwagomba sews a dress

“I am pleased with the trainers’ delivery of the materials and it is my expectation that the trainees will be fully equipped with vocational skills,” said Kachimanga.

She was, however, not impressed with lack of seriousness among some beneficiaries the  trainings.

“Some of the beneficiaries are not taking the trainings seriously as they are fond of skipping classes,” said Kachimanga.

Blessings Mwangomba, a beneficiary of the initiative, said her newly-acquired skills have helped her become financially independent.

“My life has completely changed following the introduction of these vocational trainings for people with disabilities. I am now able to sew clothes and sell them,” she stated.

Under the programme, the beneficiaries train in tailoring, welding, motorcycle repairing, tinsmith and carpentry.

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