The Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI) has signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Nigerian Meteorological Agency-NiMet to address the climate and weather-related challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in weather patterns caused by human activities and natural processes, leading to extreme weather events such as floods, heatwaves, and droughts. For PWDs, these changes pose unique challenges, including reduced access to timely and accurate information, limited mobility during emergencies, and heightened vulnerability to disasters.
A Statement by the Program Manager of AWWDI, Mr Kolawole Jayeoba explains that with the collaboration, NiMet will work with AWWDI to create inclusive weather reports and climate adaptation strategies, ensuring that information is accessible in formats such as braille, audio, and sign language, tailored specifically to the needs of PWDs.
It also aims to build awareness and capacity among PWD communities on the impact of climate change and how to take proactive measures in response to weather forecasts.
According to the statement, the partnership underscores the importance of inclusive climate action and the need for PWDs to be adequately informed and supported in times of extreme weather conditions.
Key Benefits of the Partnership:
Inclusive Weather Reports: NiMet will provide weather updates in accessible formats to ensure PWDs can stay informed.
Climate Adaptation Strategies: Tailored solutions will be developed to help PWDs prepare for and respond to extreme weather events.
Capacity Building: Awareness campaigns and training will empower PWD communities to understand and mitigate climate impacts.
Advocacy for Inclusivity: The initiative will inspire other agencies to adopt inclusive practices in disaster management and public safety.
Supported by the Disability Rights Fund, AWWDI has been at the forefront of advocating for the rights and inclusion of women with disabilities, and this new collaboration marks a significant step towards achieving greater environmental and social justice for vulnerable communities.
“We are grateful to the Nigeria Meteorological Agency for joining hands with us in this critical initiative. By ensuring that climate and weather information is made accessible to people with disabilities, we are helping to reduce the vulnerability of these communities to climate-related disasters”.
The Disability Rights Fund (DRF), which has supported this initiative, continues to champion efforts that promote the rights of PWDs, ensuring they are included in discussions and actions that shape policies impacting their lives.
AWWDI, with this collaboration, will continue to work towards sustainable and inclusive development for all Nigerians, especially women with disabilities.
Let’s join hands to make climate information accessible for all!