01/12/2025
Serene Life Foundation has commenced key introductory and coordination engagements for its new advocacy initiative titled “Empowering Girls and Women with Disabilities Through Advocacy and Social Change.” The project is supported under the Women and Girls Fund (WGF) under the Scottish Government and aims to strengthen awareness, community inclusion, and meaningful participation of girls and women with disabilities in Chongwe District.
As part of the project start-up phase, the Foundation conducted a series of courtesy calls to formally introduce the project to district leadership, community structures, and civil society partners. These engagements highlighted the project’s focus on addressing social, structural, and attitudinal barriers that limit the participation, protection, and empowerment of women and girls with disabilities. The initiative also seeks to enhance disability rights awareness, promote inclusive local systems, and foster supportive community attitudes through targeted advocacy and social change activities.
The Serene Life Foundation team was warmly welcomed by key district authorities, including the District Commissioner, the Chongwe District parliamentary office and the District Health Director. All leaders expressed strong enthusiasm and support for the project, recognizing its importance in advancing inclusive development and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities in the district.
Beyond government departments, the Foundation also paid courtesy visits to several civil society and community partners, including the Women’s Lobby Group, Department of Social Welfare, District Administration, Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD), and other organizations working with persons with disabilities. These institutions appreciated the initiative and expressed willingness to collaborate in mobilizing communities, coordinating outreach activities, and strengthening referral pathways for women and girls with disabilities.
Through these engagements, Serene Life Foundation has built a strong foundation of stakeholder support and partnership. The organization remains committed to promoting meaningful participation, amplifying the voices of girls and women with disabilities, and driving sustainable social change within Chongwe District.
