Bungoma: The government has announced plans to provide opportunities for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to secure jobs abroad, aligning with the courses they have undertaken and the available vacancies. Labour and Social Protection Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusivity through the job migration program, which will assist PWDs in acquiring visas for employment abroad.

According to Kenya News Agency, Dr. Mutua made this announcement during the International Day for Persons with Disabilities celebrations in Bungoma. He highlighted that the Persons with Disabilities Bill is currently in its second reading in Parliament and is expected to be finalized by early next year. Furthermore, Dr. Mutua urged contractors to incorporate ramps in all buildings and roads to facilitate movement for PWDs using wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

Dr. Mutua outlined a compliance timeline, urging contractors to complete necessary adjustments by the end of June 2025. Starting f
rom July 1, 2025, officers from the Ministry of Labour will conduct inspections to ensure all infrastructures are accessible to PWDs.

Bungoma Governor Kenneth Lusaka supported these initiatives by announcing that the county government will allocate a specific percentage of tenders to PWDs, in accordance with the law. Additionally, the Governor stated that physical assessments at Bungoma Referral Hospital would be offered free of charge. In a gesture of support, the county government distributed 100 wheelchairs to individuals with disabilities during the event. Governor Lusaka noted that there are currently 985 individuals living with disabilities in the county.