Kenyans have been called upon to champion the inclusion and empowerment of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), particularly by supporting their access to education and healthcare services.
Speaking in Funyula, Prof. Julia Ojiambo, a board member of the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK), emphasized that Kenya’s journey toward becoming a united and equitable nation depends on how well it embraces and integrates all its citizens, including those living with disabilities.
“For our country to truly progress, we must ensure that PWDs are not left behind in any sphere of development,” said Prof. Ojiambo. “We must include them in education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and policy decision-making.”
Prof. Ojiambo encouraged PWDs to take full advantage of government programs and services, beginning at the grassroots level, to uplift their quality of life and realize their full potential. She noted that the NFDK continues to support initiatives that provide assistive devices, vocational training, and funding for small businesses run by persons with disabilities.
The call for inclusion comes amid ongoing national efforts to promote equity, with PWDs still facing widespread barriers including stigma, limited access to education, inaccessible infrastructure, and inadequate healthcare.
Prof. Ojiambo urged communities, leaders, and institutions to create inclusive environments that nurture the abilities of persons with disabilities rather than focus on their limitations.
“This is not about sympathy; it’s about equal opportunity and dignity for all Kenyans,” she added.
The National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya plays a pivotal role in advocating for the rights and welfare of PWDs and continues to call for greater collaboration between the public, private sector, and civil society to build a more inclusive nation.