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Survivor-led · Malawi
Advancing Rights. Strengthening Independence. Amplifying Lived Experience for Persons with Spinal Cord Injuries
Welcome to the Spinal Injuries Association of Malawi (SIAM) a disability-led organisation founded by people with lived experience of spinal cord injury. Since 2011, we have worked alongside persons with spinal cord injuries and other disabilities to promote dignity, independence, inclusion and equal participation in society. Through peer support, advocacy, empowerment and collaboration, we work to strengthen access to healthcare, rehabilitation, assistive technology, livelihoods, social protection and the opportunities people need to live independently and participate fully in their communities.
Impact, in numbers
Two decades of quiet, patient work.
Every figure represents a person, a family and a community moving towards greater dignity, independence and opportunity.
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Access to support
Improved access to peer support, rehabilitation, advocacy and livelihood opportunities.
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Volunteer work
We worked with different organization for volunteer work
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Persons with spinal injuries
We have estimated over 2000 people in our organization
Figures published annually in SIAM's audited reports and programme updates.
Featured project
Sustainable Livelihoods and Stronger Systems for Persons with Spinal Injuries in Malawi.
Creating Pathways to Independence and Sustainable Livelihoods
Explore project
About the project
The work behind the change.
The PATHS Project is an initiative of the Spinal Injuries Association of Malawi (SIAM), supported by the Leopold Bachmann Foundation (LBF) through a grant. The project runs from June 2026 to July 2027 and is grounded in the lived experiences of persons with spinal injuries.
PATHS responds to the economic and social barriers that can limit persons with spina cord injuries access to employment, entrepreneurship and opportunities for independence. Through practical entrepreneurship training, 60 persons with spinal injuries will develop the knowledge and skills needed to start or strengthen small businesses, while 30 participants will receive start-up grants to turn their business ideas into sustainable income-generating opportunities.
Alongside livelihood support, the project will strengthen SIAM as an organization by improving its digital presence, financial management and reporting systems. These efforts will enhance accountability, communication and SIAM’s capacity to effectively support its members and advocate for their rights.
By combining livelihood development, lived experience and organizational strengthening, the PATHS Project is helping create opportunities for persos with spinal injuries to achieve greater economic independence, build resilience and participate more fully in their communities. It contributes to SIAM’s broader vision of a Malawi where persons with spinal injuries can live with dignity, equality and meaningful inclusion.
What the project focuses on
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Climate-smart agriculture support
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Peer mentoring and business mentorship
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Start-up support through grants and productive assets
What we do
Three programmes.
One movement.
With thanks
Our donors and partners
The organisations helping SIAM advance dignity, inclusion and equal opportunity across Malawi.
Federation of Disability Organisations in Malawi
Malawi Ministry of Health 
Malawi Council for Disability Affairs
Disability Rights Fund
Abilis Foundation
Stand with us
Twenty years in.
The work is only beginning.
Whether you're a donor, a policy partner or a person with a disability looking for community. There's a way in.