Stakeholders drawn from several sectors in Narok County have warned residents against discriminating persons with disabilities.
Led by Narok County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia, the stakeholders called for inclusion of the physically challenged persons in both private and public sectors as they too have a role to play to contribute to the development of the country.
The stakeholders spoke during the celebrations to mark 20 years since the formation of National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) was formed, with the theme; ‘Celebrating 20 years of diversity and inclusion in Kenya: Stories of Triumphs and Overcoming Barriers’.
Commissioner Lotiatia warned that discriminating against persons with disabilities is a crime and could attract a jail sentence, hence calling on the society to embrace, respect and support this special group of people.
“We are here to check on whether the Persons with Disabilities have been accorded the support they deserve. They have a right to be given job opportunities, access government funds and get tenders from the government just like any other person,” he reiterated.
Lotiatia asked heads of department to ensure that this group of people gets priority when seeking for government services in offices.
Maasai Council of Elders Coordinator Maraga Otuni asked the society not to hide children with disabilities but challenged them to enroll them in school and take them to worship centers so that they can interact with other members of the society.
He called on the government to build special schools for the deaf and blind children, as they travelled long distances to look for good schools where they could learn.
The elder condemned those who take advantage of persons with disability to grab their property or sexually assault women saying the long arm of the law would nab them.
Emily Waiyo from the Maendeleo Ya Wanawake forum said the council has been in the front line of educating and championing for the rights of persons with disability.
Narok County NCPWD coordinator Julius Ntayia underscored the importance of promoting and protecting the rights of people with disabilities.
He reiterated that the council will continue to provide a platform for discussion, knowledge exchange and envisioning the future of disability inclusion.
“We are continuing to educate them on various government programmes that include the new health scheme, Social Health Authority (SHA), where most of them have already registered,” he continued.
NCPWD is a state corporation that was established in 2004 to promote the interests of people with disabilities.
By Ann Salaton