Action Trike Makes It Possible
Action for Progress has been distributing mobility units that have made a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities across most of Malawi. Nearly 4,000 units have reached those in need, and this followed the receipt of over 4,500 all-terrain wheelchairs in previous years.
A few weeks ago, Mobility Ministries, the manufacturer of these units, introduced an improved design to address some of the challenges with the previous model. The new design is more comfortable, efficient, and durable for users. The first of these new units reached Malawi and the life of Madalitso Frackson from Msaka Village in Traditional Authority Kayembe in Dowa District.
Madalitso, a 26-year-old woman, had to crawl on the ground after her wheelchair was taken away. She was told the wheelchair needed to be given to someone who was going to school. Even though she had never been to school, it wasn’t her fault. She just didn’t have access to education.
That was a tough time for her, but it also changed her life. Madalitso decided that if she ever got another mobility device, she would go to school right away.
She says, “When the first unit was taken away from me, I realized that people who go to school or run a business are seen as more important. They get priority. I promised myself that if I ever got another wheelchair, I would go to school no matter how old I was. I want to learn how to read and write, and if I can, I want to go to university. My dream is to become a doctor.”
When the new unit arrived at Action for Progress, Madalitso was the first person to try it out. She was so excited!
“This tricycle is fast, more comfortable, and easy to ride,” she said with a smile. “I don’t have to use too much energy, and that makes it easier for me to move around and go to school.”
She proudly said she has already started school and is in Standard One at Chisepo Primary School. Last term, she got ninth place in her class, and she’s still working hard to do well. She doesn’t mind learning with younger kids because she’s focused on achieving her goals.
The new tricycle is more than just an upgrade in design. It’s a fresh start for those who struggled with the old model. Now, they can enjoy better comfort, efficiency, and independence. And the new design is even more durable, so they can use it for years to come.
With your continued support, Action for Progress, working with the Malawi Project and Mobility Ministries, will keep working to help people with disabilities get around, be included, and pursue their dreams.