By Ebi Kesiena
The Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative (AWWDI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to address the unique challenges posed by climate change and weather-related events for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
According to a statement from AWWDI, the partnership aims to ensure that PWDs can access critical weather and climate information in formats tailored to their specific needs.
AWWDI explained that this collaboration would involve the creation of inclusive weather reports and climate adaptation strategies. These reports will be made accessible through braille, audio recordings, and sign language, ensuring that PWDs are better prepared for environmental changes and extreme weather conditions.
NiMet, in its commitment to inclusivity, stated that it would work closely with AWWDI to enhance awareness and build the capacity of PWD communities to respond proactively to weather forecasts. The agency emphasized the importance of making climate action inclusive and equipping vulnerable populations with the necessary tools to mitigate risks associated with climate-related disasters.
Program Manager for AWWDI, Kolawole Jayeoba, stated that this partnership represents a critical step toward achieving environmental and social equity for PWDs.
He expressed gratitude to NiMet for its support and collaboration, highlighting the importance of reducing the vulnerabilities faced by disabled communities in times of climate crises.
The Disability Rights Fund (DRF), which backs AWWDI, explained that the initiative aligns with its mission to promote the rights and inclusion of PWDs. The DRF continues to advocate for integrating PWDs into policymaking processes that directly impact their lives.
AWWDI however noted that this agreement marks significant progress in its mission to ensure sustainable and inclusive development, particularly for women with disabilities, across Nigeria.
