NCCK Hosts National Pre Assembly to Advocate for Inclusion and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities

 By James Mutua

Limuru, Kenya – Over 60 individuals with disabilities from 20 counties gathered for a two-day Pre Assembly at the Jumuia Conference and Country Home, organized by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK). The conference, themed "Redefining Disability: Recognizing and Appreciating Disabilities," served as a precursor to the NCCK's 65th General Assembly. The participants focused on Inclusion, Empowerment, and Integration of Persons with Disabilities, guided by the biblical inspiration from John 9:1-3, emphasizing that disability is not a result of sin but a manifestation of God's work.

Kenya is home to approximately one million people living with disabilities, making up 2% of the population. Despite this significant presence, these individuals often face social, political, economic, and professional exclusion due to ignorance and prejudice. The NCCK has called for a societal shift to ensure that persons with disabilities live their lives to the fullest, echoing Jesus' declaration in John 10:10: "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

At the Pre Assembly, key points were recommended. It was noted that Churches should foster inclusive environments, allowing persons with disabilities to participate fully in ministry and leadership. It was agreed that buildings should be accessible, and sermons should incorporate messages of inclusion. Additionally, they agreed to designate a day to celebrate persons with disabilities.

Other proposed matters discussed include reviewing university entry requirements for special education graduates, advocating for judicial intervention to address underrepresentation in county assemblies, expediting the review of the Persons With Disabilities Bill 2024, and ensuring the timely disbursement of cash transfers to registered individuals.

They urged county governments to exempt businesses owned by persons with disabilities from duties, rates, and taxes to promote dignified livelihoods, develop and maintain PWD-friendly sports facilities, and implement and integrate PWD policies into county laws.

They said that empowerment and leadership initiatives should encourage persons with disabilities to seek leadership roles in public, private, and political sectors and that there should be a focus on promoting active participation in political parties and the submission of memoranda to the Senate regarding the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2024.

On matters concerning children living with disabilities, they urged parents and caregivers to support and nurture them, emphasizing the importance of creating safe environments at home, in churches, schools, and society to help them achieve their potential.

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