Supporting people with disabilities in Nepal

“I learned to raise my voice against discrimination”

(LWI) – In Nepal, people with disabilities face significant challenges, from inaccessible infrastructure to social stigma. The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) Nepal recently completed a project intervention to improve the quality of life for marginalized Dalit and Indigenous communities while empowering individuals with disabilities.

Overcoming hardship

Mahadev Dhamala, chairperson of the municipal disability network in Rajapur, participated in the project and played a key role in these efforts. He helped establish the Disability Upliftment Center (DUC), advocating for inclusion and accessibility.

Dhamala has first-hand experience of the challenges associated with disability in Nepal. He contracted polio in 1991, leaving his legs paralyzed. Soon after, his father, the family’s sole breadwinner, passed away, and his mother left. Raised by relatives, Dhamala fought for his education despite Nepal’s lack of barrier-free schools. “I used to drag myself along gravel roads to school, with my books in tow,” he recalls.

A tricycle eventually gave him greater mobility, but after completing higher secondary education, he faced discrimination. “Community members mocked me, calling me names and showing little respect,” he shares.

Persistent challenges

Dhamala is but one of many. In the 1990s, polio was endemic in Nepal, leaving many children with permanent physical disabilities. In addition to a lack of rehabilitation and infrastructure, they are also often stigmatized. “In Nepal, people with disabilities are often excluded from education, employment, and public life,” explains Dipendra Lamsal, LWF Nepal’s communication officer. “Public spaces, transportation, and schools are rarely accessible, and laws protecting their rights are poorly implemented.”

A path to leadership

Dhamala was selected for the LICED project and received training to advocate for people with disabilities. “I learned to raise my voice against discrimination,” he says. As an elected chairperson of the municipal disability network, he plays an active role in this local governing structure. Through the project , he helped to establish the Disability Uplift Center, representing people with disabilities in Rajapur Municipality and creating more attention for specific needs, ideas and solutions.

Mahadev Dhamala’s story is exemplary in his determination and engagement. His life story shows that he never accepted the limitations set by his environment. Many others have benefitted from the project in similar ways, says Dr Bijaya Bajracharya, LWF Country Director in Nepal. Changing the perspective from a person's disability towards the potential of marginalized people however can transform entire communities.

"Our work ensures that people with disabilities are not only included but empowered to realize their full potential. We strengthen their capacity to influence the duty bearers (local administration and government) to access their right. And when we create opportunities for the most marginalized, we foster a society that is stronger, more resilient, and united in its diversity,” Bajracharya adds.

Despite ongoing challenges, Dhamala now holds a respected leadership role, supporting others who face similar struggles. “I am honored to help those who, like me, have been marginalized,” he says. He actively participates in community training and municipal meetings and hopes to elevate more people with disabilities into leadership positions. “With support, we can institutionalize our programs and create lasting change,” he concludes.