Kirinyaga: Kirinyaga County Assembly has passed the Disability Bill, 2023, marking a significant step forward for people with disabilities (PWD) in the region. The bill, introduced during the second assembly and driven by the Committee on Gender and Youth chaired by Benson Ngahu, aims to protect the rights and enhance the rehabilitation of PWDs.
According to Kenya News Agency, the bill seeks to elevate the living standards of PWDs and foster initiatives that support their integration into mainstream activities. Harrison Kariuki, an MCA nominated to represent PWDs in the County Assembly, emphasized that the bill is designed to tackle the challenges faced by PWDs. A board will be established to advocate for and assist the PWD community in Kirinyaga, addressing issues that affect them.
Kariuki highlighted that PWDs have historically been excluded from benefits like bursaries due to the lack of a special budget. He expressed confidence that the board will help bring equity among Kirinyaga residents. Kariuki also pointed out the humiliation PWDs endure when seeking medical services due to the absence of interpreters, compromising their privacy.
He stressed the need to recognize the unique needs of different types of PWDs, urging those involved in building affordable housing to consider these needs. Kariuki added that the board would champion the 5 per cent employment quota as enshrined in the Constitution, ensuring it applies across all job sectors.
The bill proposes basic training programmes to educate those interacting with PWDs about their rights and how to coexist with them. Kariuki called on the board to collaborate with the Ministry of Gender at both the county and national levels to maintain a comprehensive database of PWDs in Kirinyaga for better tracing and support.
Kariuki also encouraged family members of PWDs to register with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities to access additional benefits. He noted that the establishment of a fund to support PWDs is a milestone, as it will economically empower them and improve their living standards.
The bill, which received unanimous support from the MCAs, will now be forwarded to the governor for assent.