Kakamega: The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) in partnership with key stakeholders has launched a disability inclusion initiative aimed at enhancing access to rights and services for persons with disabilities.
According to Kenya News Agency, the three-year project, dubbed the Jumuisha project, involves collaboration between NCPWD, the Consortium of Disabled Persons in Kenya (CDPOK), and the Association for the Physically Disabled of Kenya (AFDK), with support from the Christian Blind Mission (CBM). The initiative seeks to ensure equitable access to opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Speaking at the launch event in Kakamega, David Munyendo, County Director of Christian Blind Mission, highlighted that the project focuses on capacity building, advocacy, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. The goal is to create an inclusive and equitable society in compliance with the constitution, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities (UNCRPD), and Vision 2030.
CBM Programme Officer Tasline Otieno mentioned that the initiative is being piloted in Kakamega, Nakuru, Kilifi, and Isiolo counties. It targets disadvantaged individuals by improving their livelihoods, enhancing inclusive education, and reducing disease prevalence, among other objectives.
In Kakamega, the project aims to recruit 10 Jumuisha Mashinani champion members, provide internships and apprenticeships to 160 youths, and train at least 20 Huduma Center staff members and caregivers on handling persons with disabilities. Otieno stated that efforts are focused in Likuyani, Khwisero, Matungu, Ikolomani, and Butere sub-counties, where they assist with mobility devices, Social Health Insurance Authority registration, and acquisition of birth and National IDs.
The Kakamega County Coordinator of NCPWD, Priscah Akoth, noted that the organization, alongside stakeholders, has facilitated the registration and issuance of disability certificates to over 350 persons during an outreach program, streamlining the process by conducting assessments and registrations on the spot.
Kakamega County Chief Officer Dr. Phitalis Masakhwe warned against misappropriation of funds meant for vulnerable community members and highlighted the county government's efforts in providing grants and training opportunities for youth with disabilities in local polytechnics.
Joseph Atela, Executive Director of CDPOK, emphasized the organization's role in unifying and representing the voices of persons with disabilities and called for stronger partnerships to enhance the visibility of their work. Christian Blind Mission Global Director Edwin Osundwa reiterated the importance of prudent fund management for the benefit of disadvantaged groups.