Kirinyaga County Department of Gender organized an event with people with disabilities post the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) with a vibrant celebration focused on empowering and amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities.
This years’ theme for the global event was ‘Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future,’ seeking greater recognition of the leadership potential and contributions of people with disabilities toward building an inclusive society.
The event was graced by County Executive Committee Member, (CECM), in charge Gender and Youth, Millicent Nyawira on Friday at Kerugoya, who stressed the importance of inclusivity of Persons with Disabilities in leadership roles at all levels of society.
“Today, we are gathered here with Persons living with Disabilities, to acknowledge their contribution to society, and to commit to fostering an environment where every individual has the opportunity to thrive,” he added
Ms Nyawira said the County Government of Kirinyaga has considered the disabled in recruitment and reserved positions in the county leadership. In addition, the county is putting in place the necessary mechanism for inclusion in all county activities and policies.
To facilitate the special group, the CEC enumerated some of the county’s strategies that include creation of a Directorate of People with Disabilities in the county.
The county also provides single business permits to those in the business sector and waiver of medical bills. The directorate has availed mobility devices, palliative care services and allocation of more resources to cater for diverse needs of People Living with Disabilities.
The PWDs were encouraged to join social groups as empowerment funds will soon be operationalized and they will be eligible through the groups.
However, the CEC noted that Stigma on disabilities is still a great challenge but once the Disability Bill is passed by the County Assembly it will address the injustices and create a fair place for them.
Harrison Bundi, nominated Member of County Assembly (MCA) representing PWDs, challenges them to be proud of what they are and work hard to achieve the best. He revealed that Kirinyaga Disability Bill, which he sponsored, has gone through public participation and once it becomes law, it will be helpful to people.
The MCA asked the county government to consider coming up with facilities for PWDs in all institutions of higher learning under devolved units.
By Mutai Kipngetich