DWAI Advocates for Disability-Inclusive Healthcare at WHO Africa Youth Consultative Forum

On 27 July 2026, the Deaf Women Aloud Initiative (DWAI) participated in the WHO Africa Youth Consultative Forum on the Regional Strategic Plan (2026–2030) and Vision 2035, held at the United Nations House in Abuja.

Organised by the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, the forum brought together young leaders, health professionals, civil society organisations, advocates, innovators, and policymakers to contribute to Africa’s future health agenda.

DWAI used the platform to advocate for disability-inclusive and accessible healthcare systems, with particular attention to the experiences of Deaf women and girls and other persons with disabilities.

Representing DWAI in the absence of Executive Director Hellen Anurika Beyioku-Alase, Human Resources Officer Mrs. Obasi Ekpereamaka delivered the Executive Director’s special remarks. The message highlighted key barriers faced by persons with disabilities, including communication barriers for Deaf people, inaccessible health facilities, limited accessible health information, discrimination, and the multiple forms of exclusion experienced by women and girls with disabilities.

DWAI called for disability inclusion to be embedded across health policies, budgets, programmes, and implementation plans, rather than treated as an afterthought. The organisation also reaffirmed its commitment to working with WHO, government institutions, youth networks, civil society, and development partners to strengthen inclusive healthcare and ensure young persons with disabilities have a meaningful role in health decision-making.

DWAI appreciates the World Health Organization, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and Federal Ministry of Youth Development for creating a platform for young people and stakeholders to contribute to the development of Africa’s health agenda.

Building a healthier Africa means ensuring that every person—including Deaf people and persons with disabilities—can access healthcare, participate in decision-making, and be included in the policies that shape their lives.