Globally, access to healthcare remains a significant challenge for persons with disabilities. According to the United Nations (UN), women and girls with disabilities often face multiple layers of discrimination, leaving them at the margins of healthcare systems. They are more likely to encounter negative attitudes from healthcare providers, experience physical barriers at clinics, and have limited access to information on their sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR)【1】【2】. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that inclusive healthcare is essential for achieving universal health coverage, and specific efforts must address the attitudinal and structural challenges that hinder women with disabilities from receiving the care they need.
Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI), in partnership with Hivos WeLead, recently convened a strategic meeting with the Nasarawa State Healthcare Board to address the critical issue of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) for women and girls with disabilities. The meeting, held at the Tazu Luxury Hotel in Lafia, highlighted the urgent need for a more inclusive and accessible healthcare system that caters to the specific needs of this marginalized population.
Sharing First-Hand Experiences and Barriers Faced
Women with disabilities actively participated in the discussions, sharing their personal experiences when visiting healthcare facilities. Many recounted instances of discrimination, inadequate communication, and inaccessible services, highlighting the urgent need for sensitization of healthcare workers and structural improvements in health facilities. Their testimonies painted a vivid picture of the everyday challenges they encounter—from being dismissed by medical personnel to struggling with facilities not designed for their mobility needs.
These insights were a call to action, emphasizing that true inclusion requires not only policy changes but also a shift in attitudes and behavior within healthcare institutions. The meeting recognized that ensuring healthcare workers are trained to understand and respect the needs of persons with disabilities is a critical step toward achieving equitable access.
Commitment to Change and Collaboration for Inclusive Healthcare
While change may take time, AWWDI remains committed to creating a healthcare system where every woman and girl with a disability can receive quality care without discrimination. This strategic meeting marks a significant milestone in our journey to advocate for inclusive SRHR services. AWWDI and the Nasarawa State Healthcare Board agreed on the need for ongoing engagement and policy advocacy to eliminate barriers and ensure no one is left behind.
Together Toward an Inclusive Future
With Hivos WeLead’s support, AWWDI will continue working tirelessly to foster systemic change. Every meeting, partnership, and advocacy effort brings us closer to building a healthcare system that values and respects the health needs of all individuals.
This journey is not easy, but we are determined to push forward—until every woman and girl with a disability can access the care they deserve. Join us in this mission to make healthcare in Nigeria truly inclusive and equitable for all.
Stay updated on our work and progress as we continue advocating for health, dignity, and equality!