The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) in Kiambu celebrated its 20th anniversary under the theme ‘celebrating 20 Years of Diversity and Inclusion in Kenya: Stories of Triumphs and Overcoming Barriers’.
The forum was held at the Kiambu National Polytechnic (KNAP) to review key disability milestones achieved over the 20 years in the county with a view to enhance disability inclusion initiatives.
Speaking during the event, Senior Kiambu Deputy County Commissioner, Titus Macharia, said the National Government, in collaboration with the County Government, has introduced provisions to ensure that persons with disabilities are included in all programs and initiatives taking place within the county.
“The government has prioritized the inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWD) in all spheres of life through the enactment of various laws and provisions aimed at protecting them from discrimination and stigmatization. These measures are designed to ensure that PWDs enjoy equal opportunities and quality life, just like any other citizen in the county,” said the DCC.
Macharia noted that the government is achieving this through the National Fund for the Disabled, which provides PWDs with access to assistive devices including wheelchairs. Additionally, the government is advocating for the consideration of PWDs during construction works to ensure they have access to public spaces and facilities.
The DCC further said that through empowerment, the government is funding PWDs to fully achieve their potential in their talents and interests by providing them with tools of trade. For example, they are assisting them with car washing machines, as well as shaving and hairdressing equipment for barbershops and saloons.
“I want to urge the County Government to ensure that the recently enacted Disability Act has been fully implemented and that persons with disabilities are included in appointive and nominative positions without discrimination.
Kiambu Disability Services Officer (DSO) Josphat Mokuit, highlighted the key roles and achievements of the NCPWD since its establishment 20 years ago which included the registration of all persons with disabilities, providing them with assistive devices to improve their quality of life to help them perform daily routines, as well as implementing various interventions in business matters to support their economic empowerment.
He encouraged those who are not registered with the council to come forward and register so as to acquire certificates in order to access the full range of benefits and support that the council provides in their programmes noting that so far over 50 percent of people with disabilities are working in various administrative positions.
The County Coordinator for Social Protection and Children’s Services officer Beatrice Gitaru said they normally refer and fund various departments and special groups especially the PWDs to access government funds such as Uwezo.
The County is also enhancing their financial capacities through training and offering vocational training and rehabilitation services to persons with disabilities with the Kiambu County Government having set aside approximately 30 percent of its procurement opportunities for PWDs
The Thika Children’s Officer Lina Mwangi underscored the key role of the County Government in ensuring that children with disabilities in the county are guaranteed access to education opportunities.
“We encourage learners with disabilities in the county to apply for the presidential bursary, as a portion of it is set aside specifically for them, with proof of vulnerability,” she stated, stressing that the presidential bursary is only offered to children whose parents are residents of Kiambu County, and not to those who come to study in the county.
The national event is being held at KICD and will provide a comprehensive platform for Persons with Disabilities, policymakers, government officials, innovators, and stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions, exchange knowledge, and envision the future of persons with disability inclusion in governmental and private opportunities.
By John Kariba
