Morogoro, Tanzania
As Tanzania prepares for its 2025 General Elections, the Youth with Disabilities Organization (YoWDO), with support from Sightsavers Tanzania, have launched a project aiming at improving inclusive democracy among persons with disabilities, ensuring that no one is left behind in the country’s democratic journey. The project “Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the 2025 General Election” was launched in Morogoro and brought together government officials, civil society leaders, and disability advocates united by a single message: Democracy is only complete when it includes everyone.
A group photo featuring the Guest of Honor, Mr. Rashid Maftaha, alongside Mr. Edwin Kabalika, Mr. Jonas Lubago, and representatives from various civil society organizations, capturing a moment of collaboration and commitment to inclusive elections
Opening the launch, Mr. Rajab Mpilipili, Executive Director of the Youth with Disabilities Organization (YoWDO), set the tone for the event by emphasizing the need for equal participation in Tanzania’s democratic processes. He welcomed stakeholders from government, civil society, and international partners, stressing that the project is a milestone in the fight for inclusive governance.
Mr. Mpilipili underscored that persons with disabilities have long been sidelined in elections due to structural and attitudinal barriers, and this initiative is designed to change that reality.
“A vote is not just a mark on paper, it is dignity, it is your voice, and it is representation. If persons with disabilities are excluded, our democracy is incomplete.” Mr. Rajab
Mr. Rajab Mpilipili Executive director at YoWDO delivering the welcome remarks and facilitating the smooth running of the workshop, setting a warm and collaborative tone for the event.
“Democracy is Measured by Inclusion”
Opening the event, Mr. Rashid Maftaha, Director of the Department of Persons with Disabilities at the Prime Minister’s Office, reminded participants that democracy is more than casting a ballot, it is the foundation of citizenship and representation. Yet, he admitted, this right is still out of reach for many Tanzanians with disabilities.
“Democratic participation is the cornerstone of citizenship and representation. But for many persons with disabilities, this right is compromised by inaccessible polling stations, limited access to campaign information, and entrenched societal attitudes.” Said Mr. Rashid Maftaha
He stressed that the government is committed to reforms that will break down these barriers. This includes ensuring accessible polling stations, producing voter education materials in inclusive formats, and equipping election officials to support persons with disabilities.
To reinforce his message, Maftaha cited Tanzania’s Constitution, the Persons with Disabilities Act No. 9 of 2010, and the UNCRPD, pledging that the government will continue working with civil society and development partners to guarantee electoral systems that serve all citizens.
A group photo of Mr. Rashid Maftaha, Mr. Edwin Kabalika, and representatives from various civil society organizations enters the workshop.
Collaboration is Key
Building on this call, Mr. Godwin Kabalika, Executive Director of Sightsavers Tanzania, stressed that inclusive elections cannot be achieved by government alone.
“Change requires collaboration. Civil society, government, and electoral bodies must work together if we are to remove the barriers that keep citizens with disabilities away from the polls.” Mr. Godwin
He explained that Sightsavers will continue to strengthen the advocacy capacity of Organizations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs), while supporting the collection of vital data that can guide reforms and hold authorities accountable.
“Mr. Rashid Maftaha, Guest of Honor, speaking on the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusive electoral systems”
Breaking Attitudinal Barriers
From the perspective of disability organizations, Mr. Jonas Lubago, General Secretary of SHIVYAWATA, emphasized that democracy is not just about physical access but also about attitudes.
“True democracy is not only about ramps and braille. It is about dismantling stereotypes and the negative attitudes that silence persons with disabilities.” Mr. Jonas
Lubago called on Tanzanians to recognize that inclusion is a shared responsibility, urging citizens to fight stigma and respect the dignity of persons with disabilities in political spaces.
“An attendee actively participating in the workshop, listening attentively to the speakers on inclusive elections and disability rights.”
Extending Inclusion to Rural Areas
Closing the workshop, Dr. Kija, Chairperson of the National Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities, turned the spotlight to Tanzania’s rural communities. He noted that while progress is being made in urban areas, many rural voters with disabilities are still excluded from political participation due to lack of information and limited outreach.
“Information must reach rural areas where barriers are greatest. Inclusive voter education through alternative channels is essential if we want equal participation.” Dr. Kija
Dr. Kija praised the growing number of persons with disabilities stepping into leadership contests, calling it proof that change is possible if the right support systems are in place.
“Dr. Kija, Chairperson of the National Advisory Council for Persons with Disabilities, is giving closing remarks and emphasizing inclusive voter education for rural communities.”
A Shared Call to Action
The launch concluded with a collective appeal directed at all stakeholders:
- To OPDs and Disability Committees: Mobilize youth and women with disabilities to participate actively in elections.
- To Electoral Authorities: Implement recommendations to eliminate environmental, informational, and attitudinal barriers.
- To the Public: Treat inclusion as a national duty and reject stigma in all forms.
As Dr. Kija summed up:
“The quality of our democracy is not measured by how we protect the majority, but by how we safeguard the rights of each individual, especially those at risk of being forgotten.” Said Dr. Kija
Looking Ahead
With support from Sightsavers, and international partners such as the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the project will be rolled out in Singida, Tanga, and Morogoro over 2025–2026. YoWDO believe these efforts will lay the foundation for a more inclusive democracy, not just for the upcoming elections, but for generations to come.
“A participant in the hall taking notes during the session, reflecting engagement and interest in the strategies for enhancing electoral participation of persons with disabilities.”
