We are a leading Southern African disability-focused network engaged in coordination of activities of organizations of Persons with Disabilities in the Southern Africa region. On this page, we will be posting information related to our activities in 10 countries where we work in the region, namely Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The organization was formed in 1986 by disabled people for disabled people as a federation of Disability Peoples Organizations (DPOs) with a strong presence in 10 countries. SAFOD operates under the following motto: "Unlocking an Inclusive Society for Persons with Disabilities in Southern Africa." We pursue the following mission statement: "To advocate for the rights of Persons with Disabilities as well as nurturing and strengthening its affiliates and other stakeholders in Southern Africa to ensure promotion of inclusive development and human rights for persons with disabilities." Our Vision is "an inclusive society where Persons with Disabilities are treated with dignity, respect and on the basis of equality." SAFOD has successfully implemented activities and programmes, delivering on its mission of strengthening DPOs in SAFOD member countries through training, research, coordination, information-sharing, promotion of human rights and stimulating persons with disabilities' political and social development. In each of the ten countries where we operate, our focus is mainly to strengthen the capacity of our affiliates so that they are able to effectively advocate for the rights of the persons with the disabilities in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD); lobby for inclusive policies and programs; and many other activities. You can view the geographical locations of our affiliates and the activities they are involved in.