Women with disabilities are highlighting their challenges and calling for urgent solutions as the world commemorates International Women’s Day (IWD).
At an event organized by the Centre for Citizens with Disabilities (CCD) under the theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” several women shared their experiences and proposed actionable steps to address their plights.
Adedoyin Beyioku-Alse, representing the Hearing Impaired/Deaf Cluster, lamented the financial exclusion faced by women with disabilities.
“Accessing funds and loans is difficult as financial institutions often doubt our ability to repay. Without financial support, we are forced into dependency,” she said.
Beyioku-Alse emphasized the need for society to prioritize the inclusion of persons with disabilities in financial systems.
Assumpta Khalil, an arm amputee, stressed the importance of financial empowerment.
“Stabilizing women with disabilities financially can reduce daily challenges. Governments must implement and enforce policies to combat stereotypes and provide support,” Khalil urged.
She also highlighted the difficulties in accessing healthcare and the high rate of single motherhood within the disability community due to social prejudices.
Modupe Akinsola, who is visually impaired, criticized how persons with disabilities are often treated as “objects for miracles” by religious institutions.
“We need public reorientation to improve the lives of women and girls with disabilities,” she stated.
Tolase Kolapo, with hearing impairment, noted the critical issue of communication barriers, advocating for more interpreters.
Elizabeth Onayere, a visually impaired teacher, called for better healthcare access and the presence of counselors in health centers.
“Families need to be educated on supporting children with disabilities from birth to foster positive development,” she said.
