One of the key areas that urgently need attention concerning women and girls with disabilities (WGWD) is their Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). Many people, including some health workers, wrongly believe that WGWD do not have these needs, overlooking the fact that they are human beings with the same rights and desires as everyone else.

Understanding Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) for Women and Girls with Disabilities (WGWDs)

Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) encompass the rights of individuals to have access to information, education, and services that ensure their sexual and reproductive health and well-being. For Women and Girls with Disabilities (WGWDs), SRHR holds profound importance, as they often face significant barriers, including stigma, discrimination, and inaccessibility to essential services. The lack of inclusive SRHR policies and facilities denies many WGWDs their basic human rights and perpetuates cycles of marginalization.

The impact of inaccessible SRHR for WGWDs is multifaceted. These women and girls often face challenges such as inadequate information on reproductive health, exclusion from community health programs, and poor access to medical facilities equipped to meet their needs. For example, a WGWD seeking prenatal care may encounter inaccessible healthcare facilities, limited understanding from medical personnel, or societal bias that undermines her rights. These obstacles not only affect their health but also limit their ability to lead fulfilling lives.

AWWDI’s Commitment to Advocacy and Empowerment

The Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI) has been at the forefront of championing the rights of WGWDs, ensuring they have access to essential services and opportunities. One of AWWDI’s key strategies has been the formation of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across various communities.

These SHGs serve as platforms for WGWDs to come together, share experiences, and advocate collectively for their rights. Through these groups, members gain knowledge on SRHR, enhance their confidence, and engage in community-level decision-making processes. AWWDI’s SHGs have successfully empowered many WGWDs, creating a ripple effect of awareness and advocacy. For instance, members of these groups have been instrumental in raising concerns about the accessibility of healthcare services in their communities, leading to tangible changes and increased inclusion.

The Role of Hivos in Advancing SRHR for WGWDs

Hivos, a global development organization, has been a crucial partner in AWWDI’s mission. Through the WeLead Project, Hivos has supported initiatives that address the unique challenges faced by WGWDs, particularly in the realm of SRHR. The WeLead Project focuses on fostering inclusivity, empowering marginalized groups, and ensuring that no one is left behind in accessing fundamental rights and services.

Engagement Session on SRHR at Nasarawa State Assembly

In line with its commitment to advocacy and inclusion, AWWDI recently organized an engagement session on SRHR for WGWDs at the Nasarawa State Assembly Chambers on November 14, 2024. This landmark event brought together key stakeholders, including the Honourable Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Honourable Members, the Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs, Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), and right holders.

Objectives of the Engagement

The primary objectives of the engagement session were to:

  1. Highlight the pressing SRHR challenges faced by WGWDs in Nasarawa State.
  2. Advocate for accessible and inclusive public structures and services.
  3. Strengthen collaboration between AWWDI, the State Assembly, and other stakeholders to promote SRHR for WGWDs.

Key Highlights

The session commenced with a solemn opening prayer and a warm welcome by Honourable Aliyu Yusuf Chunbaya, Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Women Affairs. Mr. Kolawole Jayeoba, AWWDI’s Program Manager, presented the purpose of the visit and emphasized the importance of addressing SRHR issues for WGWDs. He commended Nasarawa State for domesticating the 2018 Disability Act and establishing the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities.

Mr. Jayeoba identified key challenges faced by WGWDs, including limited accessibility to public structures and marginalization in accessing SRHR information and services. He urged the Honourable Speaker to leverage his office to address these issues and promote inclusivity.

Responses and Commitments

The Honourable Speaker, Honourable Jatau, expressed his commitment to ensuring accessibility in public structures and addressing the concerns raised during the session. Honourable Chunbaya reiterated the Assembly’s support for initiatives that benefit persons with disabilities, particularly in the realm of SRHR.

Outcomes of the Engagement

The engagement session yielded significant achievements, including:

  1. The Honourable Speaker’s assurance of action to make public structures accessible.
  2. Reaffirmation of the Assembly’s commitment to supporting WGWDs and addressing their SRHR challenges.
  3. Strengthened partnerships between the State Assembly and advocacy groups like AWWDI.

Recommendations and Way Forward

To sustain the momentum generated by the engagement session, the following recommendations were made:

  1. Expedite actions to make public structures accessible to persons with disabilities.
  2. Strengthen legislative support for inclusive SRHR policies and services.
  3. Foster ongoing collaboration between the Assembly and advocacy groups such as AWWDI.

Celebrating Milestones and Looking Ahead

The engagement session at the Nasarawa State Assembly marks a significant milestone in AWWDI’s advocacy journey. With the continued support of partners like Hivos and the commitment of key stakeholders, AWWDI is poised to make even greater strides in promoting the rights and well-being of WGWDs.

Together, we can create a world where every woman and girl, regardless of her abilities, can access her rights, live with dignity, and achieve her full potential.

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