MACOHA

MACOHA (Malawi Council for the Hanicapped) is a national organisation that was established by the Government of Malawi, to implement policies and strategies on disability. MACOHA are at the forefront of work to help men and women with disabilities to be more independent, self-sufficient and recognised as equals within Malawian society.

Their work includes supporting mainstream teachers to effectively include children with disabilities, providing access to cataract operations, orthopaedic clinics, ear health services, HIV/AIDS awareness training and supporting mothers of children with disabilities.

MACOHA recognises that livelihood training is an essential part of supporting adults with disabilities to be self-sufficient. They have 2 vocational training centres in Lilongwe and Chiradzulu but did not previously have any capacity to provide vocational training to adults living in rural areas. In 2008 we piloted rural vocational training, finding local craftsmen to train people in carpentry and tailoring. Trainees are trained in groups of 4 or 5 by a local carpenter, tailor or cane furniture maker who train with them as apprentices. With this style of training they are able to learn how to run all aspects of an active business, as well as the necessary technical skills.