Kenya marks 20 years of disability inclusion with calls to support PWDs

In a conference held ahead of the International Day of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), delegates have noted improvements in inclusion both in public and private sectors.

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura praised PWDs for the strides taken in fighting stigma, urging disabled persons to seek political seats to get into leadership positions.

“The day that we shall have a president with disability, we will overcome stigma that they too can lead others. We deserve one of our own in the cabinet,” Mwaura said.

On his part, nominated MP David Ole Sankok reminisced on his visit to late Preesident Mwai Kibaki while he was being sworn in on a wheel chair which opened up the discussion on accessibility for persons with disabilities.

"We pride ourselves as persons with disabilities because there is ability beyond disability,” said Sankok.

“We seek opportunities. Make sure you can grab that opportunity by making yourself employable and qualified.”

Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka highlighted opportunities that the airline has granted to people with various disabilities in departments such as IT and cabin duty.

A number of organizations in Kenya have taken initiatives to provide opportunities to PWDs. One is Riziki Source, a social enterprise enabling access to job opportunities for persons with disabilities in Kenya.

Speaking at the conference, Riziki Source Director of Programs Kennedy Okongo noted that the journey towards inclusion in Kenya will be enhanced through providing opportunities to PWDs.

“It is important for someone to live independently. Without employment, PWDs do not live independently. They have to rely on people. That is a model we do not want to support, they should contribute meaningfully to the economy of Kenya,” he said.