My life with Celebral Palsy and battle for inclusive reproductive healthcare

Her motherhood journey and lifelong experience navigating healthcare systems have inspired her to advocate for an inclusive and equitable healthcare environment for all, especially expectant mothers living with disability.

Born after her mother endured prolonged labour, Mwende had not known she was different from other children. She attended a regular school until she was later transferred to a special school, where she got a wide spectrum of conditions people live with.

Now, as a strong voice for individuals with Cerebral Palsy, Mwende sheds light on the ongoing challenges that persons with disability face, particularly in accessing reproductive health care.

Despite societal limitations and negative perceptions, Mwende's goal is to dismantle stigmas, create awareness, and ensure that people with Cerebral Palsy can access the medical care they deserve

“I want to live in a society where people with disabilities can express their needs and desires without facing stigma or being misunderstood,” Mwende says.

She acknowledges that navigating the healthcare system can be difficult, especially when seeking sexual and reproductive health services, which often come with layers of negativity and assumptions about their autonomy.

“It’s not a disease, it’s a condition,” she emphasized

Mwende’s mission goes beyond just personal experience. She advocates for a future where women, regardless of their abilities, can live with dignity, autonomy, and respect.

"It’s important to me what I see in myself when I look in the mirror," she shares. This self-assurance drives her to raise awareness and challenge societal misconceptions, ensuring that the voices of disabled women are heard and respected in every aspect of healthcare.

Josephine Mwende’s advocacy is a reminder that Cerebral Palsy doesn’t limit a person—society’s misconceptions do.

Her call for a more inclusive healthcare system is not just about access, but about changing perceptions, breaking down barriers, and ensuring that every person, regardless of their physical condition, is treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.