SAFOD successfully coordinated and delivered the regional World Assistive Technology (AT) Awareness Campaign, working in close partnership with 10 Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) across Southern Africa. SAFOD provided overall coordination and strategic guidance, while OPDs led the on-the-ground implementation of activities at national and community levels. The campaign was implemented in three successive phases: pre-commemoration, commemoration, and post-commemoration to ensure sustained engagement, broad outreach, and lasting impact beyond World Assistive Technology Day.
Awareness Walks: Public marches were organised in multiple countries to engage communities, increase visibility of assistive technology, and demonstrate solidarity for the rights of persons with disabilities. These walks attracted participants from OPDs, community members, and stakeholders, creating opportunities for dialogue and public engagement.
Radio and Television Interviews: Campaign partners conducted interviews on local and national radio and TV stations to reach wider audiences. These interviews highlighted the importance of assistive technology, shared real-life experiences of users, and discussed the barriers that limit access, advocating for inclusive policies and practices.
Panel Discussions: Online and in-person panel discussions brought together policymakers, AT suppliers, service providers, and users to deliberate on strategies for improving access to assistive technology. These sessions fostered knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and advocacy at both national and regional levels.
Social Media Campaigns: Engaging posts, videos, and stories were shared across platforms to highlight testimonies, showcase success stories, and raise public awareness on the transformative impact of assistive technology. Social media was also used to mobilize communities and amplify campaign messaging in real time.
Podcast Interviews: Podcasts featuring AT users, advocates, and experts provided an accessible platform for deeper conversations about lived experiences, innovations in assistive technology, and ongoing advocacy efforts.
Community Outreach: OPDs conducted local outreach activities, visiting schools, clinics, public spaces, and community centers to provide information, demonstrate assistive technology devices, and engage directly with individuals who could benefit from AT services.
