Intersecting Vulnerabilities: Climate Change Impacts and Coping Strategies Among Women with Disabilities in Eastern Africa

Women with Disabilities (WWDs) in Eastern Africa experience disproportionate impacts from climate change due to intersecting vulnerabilities stemming from physical, sensory, cognitive, and mental disabilities. These challenges are exacerbated by socio-economic marginalisation, gender inequality, and exclusion from adaptation planning. This study employed a qualitative approach to examine the vulnerabilities, coping strategies, and loss and damage experienced by WWDs across six Eastern African countries. Using purposive sampling, in-depth interviews were conducted with 42 participants representing, 32 WWDs and 10 key informants, including government officials, climate experts, and representatives from disability organisations. Thematic content analysis revealed barriers to evacuation, access to early warning systems, inclusive infrastructure, and policy participation. Despite these barriers, WWDs demonstrated resilience through community support networks, livelihood diversification, and adaptive household practices. However, national climate policies such as NDCs and NAPs rarely address their specific needs. The study calls for gender-transformative, disability-inclusive adaptation policies and frameworks. Future research should assess the effectiveness of existing strategies and promote disability-justice approaches in climate governance.