Kenya to Host Africa Conference on Deafness, Focused on Inclusion and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities

By James Mutua 


Government Spokesperson, Dr Isaac Mwaura at the Kenya Society for Deaf Children. Kenya will host the Africa Conference on Deafness  from 27th to 29th in Nairobi. 

Kenya is set to host the Africa Conference on Deafness  from 27th to 29th November, bringing together key stakeholders from across the continent to discuss the rights, empowerment, and inclusion of Deaf individuals and persons with disabilities. The conference, which will take place  in Nairobi, will provide a platform for policymakers, advocates, and community leaders to collaborate and advance solutions for better inclusion and accessibility.

Speaking at the launch event, Government Spokesperson Dr. Isaac Mwaura emphasized Kenya’s commitment to leading the continent in championing the rights and leadership of persons with disabilities. He noted that the conference aligns with the theme for this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities, “Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future.”

"Kenya is proud to host this landmark conference, which underscores our nation’s unwavering commitment to creating a future where inclusion, sustainability, and empowerment are at the heart of our development agenda," said Mwaura. "Through this initiative, we reaffirm our role in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities and amplifying their voices in the African continent."

Advancing Disability Rights in Kenya

Mwaura highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to uphold the rights of persons with disabilities, as enshrined in Kenya’s Constitution. Article 54 guarantees equal access and inclusion for all persons with disabilities, ensuring their participation in education, health, and employment.

As part of this commitment, the government has established the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), a key body tasked with advocating for the rights and empowerment of the disabled community. The NCPWD has been instrumental in driving policies that promote inclusion and provide necessary support to individuals with disabilities.

Economic Empowerment Programs

In line with its commitment to promoting economic independence, the Kenyan government has launched several programs aimed at empowering persons with disabilities. In the 2023/24 financial year alone, 574 self-help groups received funding from government initiatives like the UWEZO Fund and the Women Enterprise Fund. Additionally, 30 disability-owned businesses benefitted from the Access to Government Procurement Opportunities (AGPO) program, allowing them to participate in government contracts.

The government also rolled out the Tools of Trade program, providing 57 beneficiaries with start-up kits in various fields such as catering, agriculture, and automotive engineering, enabling them to achieve economic self-sufficiency.

Enhancing Access to Education and Healthcare

Mwaura further outlined the government's efforts to enhance accessibility in education and healthcare for persons with disabilities. In the education sector, infrastructure upgrades and the provision of specialized equipment to six institutions for learners with disabilities have improved the quality of education. The government has also distributed essential assistive devices to over 4,200 individuals to support their independence and mobility.

To ensure that persons with disabilities have access to healthcare, the government has implemented universal health coverage policies that include specialized services such as rehabilitative care and preventive health programs. In addition, 2,232 learners with disabilities have benefited from scholarships, and 65,291 households caring for persons with severe disabilities have received cash transfers.

Focus on Albinism and Autism

Recognizing the unique needs of persons with albinism and autism, the government has introduced several targeted programs. Persons with albinism have received sunscreen lotions and cancer screenings, while 500 students with albinism have benefited from eye care services. The government’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Support Program has also provided therapy to over 7,600 beneficiaries and essential medications to more than 3,000 individuals with autism.

Affordable Housing and Accessibility

The Government of Kenya has prioritized accessible housing for persons with disabilities under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The Affordable Housing Program (AHP) ensures that all units are designed with universal standards, such as ramps and wide doorways, making them accessible to people with mobility challenges. Rent-to-own schemes and low-interest loans through the Housing Fund are helping individuals with disabilities to overcome barriers to homeownership.

One notable success story is that of Janet Ndung'u, a wheelchair user, who shared how the accessible features of her new home have significantly improved her quality of life, allowing her to live independently and fully participate in her community.

Promoting Inclusive Communication

The government has also made strides in improving communication accessibility, particularly for the Deaf community. With the passage of the Kenya Sign Language Bill 2023, the government is working to integrate Kenyan Sign Language into educational institutions, legal proceedings, and public services. Additionally, 354 public officers have been trained in Sign Language, improving service delivery to the Deaf community. The Office of the Registrar of Political Parties has also launched a PWD training manual, which is available in Braille to ensure that vital information is accessible to all.i

"This conference is an opportunity to build a more inclusive and sustainable future for all, and we encourage everyone to participate in this crucial dialogue,” Mwaura concluded.


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