Christine Chama-Disability Advocate

Understanding Epilepsy: Breaking Down Barriers in Zambia

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by sudden, excessive electrical activity in the brain. It affects millions of people worldwide, including in Zambia. As a disability advocate, I've seen how it can impact lives, but also how we can make a difference by promoting understanding and inclusion. Let's dive into what epilepsy is, its effects, and how we can support those affected.

There are many types of epilepsy. In some people, the cause can be found. In others, the cause is not known. Epilepsy also is known as a seizure disorder. Epilepsy is common and affects people of all genders, races, ethnic backgrounds and ages. In Zambia, people with epilepsy often face stigma and exclusion, affecting their access to education, employment, and healthcare. The condition can impact daily life, relationships, and overall well-being, with some people experiencing memory loss, mood changes, or cognitive difficulties.

When someone has a seizure attack in public, stay calm and provide support. Stay with them, guide them to a safe space, cushion their head, and loosen tight clothing. Turn them onto their side if they're on the ground, remove nearby dangerous objects, and time the seizure. If it lasts over 5 minutes, call for medical help.

By educating ourselves and others, we can promote inclusivity and support those affected. You can help by learning about epilepsy, treating people with dignity and respect, and supporting awareness initiatives. Let's create a more inclusive Zambia where people with epilepsy can thrive.

As we observe World Autism Awareness Day today, let's shift our focus from awareness to acceptance and inclusion. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. Approximately 1 in 100 children globally are autistic, with boys being diagnosed 3.4 times more often than girls. Autism is a spectrum, meaning it affects individuals to varying degrees, with some requiring support in daily life and others thriving independently.

This year's theme, "Autism and Humanity - Every Life Has Value," emphasizes the inherent dignity and worth of autistic individuals. Many autistic people experience sensory sensitivities, difficulties with social cues, and repetitive behaviors. By understanding and embracing these differences, we can create a more inclusive society.

As a disability advocate, I urge you to join the movement towards acceptance and inclusion. Educate yourself and others about autism, support autism-friendly businesses, and advocate for policy change. Let's work together to create a society that values and empowers individuals with autism. We can make a difference by promoting inclusive environments, supporting legislation that funds autism research, and protecting the rights of disabled people. Let's celebrate the diversity and contributions of autistic individuals and strive for a world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

As a disability advocate, I'm passionate about changing the conversation around intellectual disabilities. Terms like "dumb" are hurtful and outdated, and they don't reflect the value and worth of individuals who think and learn differently. People with intellectual disabilities are not defined by their cognitive challenges - they have unique strengths, talents, and contributions to make. Intellectual disabilities affect cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior, impacting daily life, learning, and communication. But with the right support and accommodations, individuals with intellectual disabilities can thrive and participate fully in their communities.

In Zambia, organizations and advocates are working to promote inclusion and support for people with intellectual disabilities. For example, inclusive education programs help students with intellectual disabilities learn alongside their peers, while community-based rehabilitation initiatives provide support for daily living. Simple actions like using respectful language, providing accessible information, and offering support can make a big difference. Let's focus on promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion, rather than using language that stigmatizes or demeans. By valuing individuals for who they are, we can create a more compassionate and equitable society

Albinism

As a disability advocate, I'm passionate about breaking down barriers and promoting understanding of various disabilities and conditions.

This week will talk about Albinism, which is a genetic condition that affects people worldwide, but misconceptions and stigma often surround it. It's not a curse or a disease, but rather a group of rare genetic disorders that cause little or no melanin production, affecting skin, hair, and eye pigmentation, often accompanied by vision impairments. There are different types of albinism, and its effects can vary greatly from person to person.

I've seen firsthand how people with albinism face social stigma, exclusion, and limited access to basic needs. They're often misunderstood, and their abilities are overlooked. In Zambia, for example, people with albinism often face myths and superstitions, leading to social isolation and lack of opportunities. But here's the thing: people with albinism are not defined by their condition. They're individuals with unique strengths, talents, and contributions to make. Many excel in various fields, from arts to sciences.

People with albinism often need support in areas like skin protection (using sunscreen, hats, sunglasses), vision aids, and access to education and employment opportunities. Simple actions like providing accessible materials, offering assistance, and treating them with dignity go a long way.

I believe that everyone deserves acceptance, understanding, and respect. Let's work together to shatter stereotypes and build a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.

Youth Day 2026 | Theme: Arise and Soar

Today we celebrate the strength, creativity, and leadership of young people everywhere. As we reflect on this year’s call to “Arise and Soar,” I want to shine a special light on young persons with disabilities.

For many of us, rising has meant pushing against barriers that were never meant to test our worth. Yet we continue to rise with courage, with talent, and with a vision for a more inclusive world.

To every young person with a disability:
Your voice matters. Your dreams are valid. Your leadership is needed.

Let this Youth Day remind us that inclusion is not an act of kindness, it is a matter of justice and rights. When young people with disabilities are empowered to participate fully, our communities become stronger, more innovative, and more just.

Today we arise.
Today we soar.
And we will not be left behind.

Today we celebrate International Women's Day under the theme "Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls."

But ALL must truly mean all.

Women and girls with disabilities continue to face barriers to education, leadership,employment, and protection from violence. Equality cannot be real while their voices remain unheard.

Today is not only a celebration. It is a call to action.

A call to ensure that women with disabilities are seen, heard, included, and empowered in every space where decisions are made.

Because a just society is one where every woman including women with disabilities has the right, the opportunity, and the power to thrive.

Equality is incomplete until women and girls with disabilities fully belong in every space where decisions are made.
Advocating for a world where women and youth with disabilities lead, belong, and thrive.

March is a Month dedicated to celebrating Women and Youths.

This year, I am choosing to intentionally focus on Women and Youths with Disabilities - a constituency that is too often present in statistics, yet absent in leadership conversations.

Celebration without inclusion is incomplete.

Throughout this Month, I will be sharing reflections and practical discussions on:

1. Representation and leadership
2. Education and economic empowerment
3. Policy gaps and structural barriers
4. Dignity, accessibility, and rights
5. The power and potential of young leaders with disabilities

If we are serious about equity,then inclusion must be deliberate - not symbolic.

Women and Youths with Disabilities are not a special interest group.
They are citizens, leaders, innovators, and change-makers.

I invite you to engage, reflect, and contribute to this conversation.

What practical action can we take this Month to make inclusion more intentional?

Let March not only be a month of celebration, but a month of accountability.

As a disability advocate, I'm passionate about creating a more inclusive society for all. This week, I want to raise awareness about hearing impairment, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Living with hearing impairment doesn't mean inability – it means adapting and thriving in unique ways. Did you know hearing impairment can be caused by genetics, age, noise exposure, or certain medical conditions? It can affect anyone, regardless of age or background.

Hearing impairment isn't just about volume; it's about understanding and connection. People with hearing impairment often rely on lip-reading, sign language, or assistive devices to communicate. Simple steps can make a big difference: face the person when speaking, speak clearly, and reduce background noise. Using visual alerts instead of auditory ones, or providing written instructions can be super helpful . Technology like hearing aids, cochlear implants, and captioning services can also greatly improve quality of life.

Let's work together to break down barriers and promote accessibility. Some simple steps we can take include using sign language or providing interpreters, offering captioning or transcripts for audio content, and being patient and understanding in our interactions. These small actions can make a huge difference in someone's life. Whether it's learning basic sign language phrases or advocating for accessibility features in public spaces, every effort counts.

Let's celebrate diversity and inclusion!

What are Visual Impairments?

Visual impairments are a type of disability that affects how people perceive and interact with their surroundings . It's a broad term covering a range of conditions, from low vision to blindness. People with visual impairments face unique challenges, like navigating spaces or accessing info. But with the right support and tech, they can thrive and contribute so much to society.

Some facts: over 2.2 billion people worldwide live with some form of visual impairment. Tech like screen readers and braille displays are game-changers, opening up opportunities for education, employment, and social connection.

Promoting inclusion is key. This means providing materials in accessible formats like braille, audio, or large print. It means ensuring physical spaces are navigable, with tactile markers and clear signage. It means using clear verbal communication, and supporting accessibility features on devices and platforms. By doing so, we can break down barriers and create a more equitable world.

Learn about visual impairments, ask respectfully about needs, challenge barriers, support inclusive design, and promote awareness and accessibility.

Let's work together to create a world where everyone can participate fully.

Inclusion isn't a favor – it's a right .

WHAT IS CP?

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is a neurological disorder that affects movement, muscle tone, and coordination. It's a lifelong condition that can impact people in different ways, from mild to severe.

As a disability advocate and a person living with a disability, I want to spread awareness about CP and promote inclusion. People with CP are not defined by their disability; they're individuals with unique strengths, talents, and passions. Let's break down barriers and create a more accessible world!

Living with CP can be challenging, but it's also shaped many individuals into resilient and determined persons. Advocacy, support, and awareness are key to improving lives. Let's amplify voices and promote equal opportunities!

My call to action:
i)Learn about Cerebral Palsy
ii)Ask questions respectfully
iii) Challenge myths when you hear them
iv) Support inclusion in schools, workplaces, churches, and communities
v) Awareness changes attitudes
vi) Inclusion changes lives

Inclusion isn’t a favor – it’s a right.

Happy Sunday, everyone!

Hope your church service was uplifting and filled with love. Wishing you a productive, joyful and purpose filled week ahead.