Disability Inclusion Essential for Achieving Vision 2030, says Secretary Mercy Wanjau

Nairobi, Kenya – In a major step towards promoting disability inclusion across Africa, Nairobi hosted a regional disability summit focused on addressing the challenges persons with disabilities (PWDs) face in the post-pandemic world. The event, themed “Persons with Disabilities in a Post-Pandemic World,” brought together government leaders, international partners, and disability advocates, all united in their commitment to improving the lives of millions affected by disabilities across the continent.

Co-organized by the African Disability Forum (ADF) and supported by the UK Government, the summit marked a crucial moment in the region’s efforts to address both the barriers and opportunities presented by the post-pandemic recovery.

“Alongside the UK, having started the inaugural disability summit in 2018, we remain committed towards disability inclusion,” said Kenya’s Secretary to the Cabinet, Mercy Wanjau. “Prioritising accessibility and equity in a post-pandemic world will definitely contribute meaningfully to a shared future.”

As technological advancements continue to offer new ways to empower PWDs, the summit emphasized the critical role assistive technology plays in creating equal opportunities. InnovateNow, Africa’s first assistive technology accelerator, launched by the UK, was highlighted for its contributions in supporting startups that cater to the needs of PWDs. “The accelerator is supporting startups to upscale, providing expert learning, mentorship, live labs, ecosystem development, and knowledge exchanges,” the summit heard.

One of the central discussions was the evolving post-pandemic world, where technology and innovation are reshaping opportunities for PWDs. However, concerns over equitable access remain. In many African countries, including Kenya, high poverty rates and limited government support make it difficult for PWDs to access the necessary tools and resources. A key takeaway from the summit was that while assistive technology is becoming available, the infrastructure and funding needed to support its widespread use are still lacking.

An example of these efforts, Shujaaz Comics, was recognized for its role in challenging societal attitudes toward disability. By introducing characters with disabilities, the comic aims to combat stigma and promote a more inclusive mindset. The collaboration between InnovateNow and Shujaaz underscores the importance of using creative platforms to reshape public perceptions and foster disability inclusion as a mainstream issue.

The timing of the summit is significant. Kenya’s 2019 census revealed that 2.2% of the population, approximately 900,000 people, live with some form of disability. Public concerns remain over the inclusion of PWDs in the workforce, education, and healthcare. Despite policies such as the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2003, and the National Disability Policy, critics argue that implementation has been slow, leaving many PWDs underserved.

Cabinet Secretary Wanjau reiterated that inclusion is essential to national progress, stating, “Disability inclusion is therefore a prerequisite in achieving Vision 2030.” She highlighted the government’s strides in accessibility, particularly through improvements to the e-Citizen platform, which now integrates features designed to enhance access for PWDs.

Beyond technology, the summit addressed broader societal and economic challenges, especially in a post-pandemic world that has deepened inequalities.

Moses Chege, Sightsavers’ Country Director in Kenya, stressed the urgency of addressing these gaps: “Despite some progress in recent years, people with disabilities are still being left behind… PWDs continue to face barriers to education, healthcare, and employment.” As the world looks toward the Global Disability Summit in Berlin in 2025, he urged greater attention to the needs of PWDs, who make up 16% of the global population.

The pandemic, while exacerbating vulnerabilities for PWDs, also spurred action. The UK-funded Inclusive Futures initiative was noted for its efforts in advocating for better policies and increased funding. This initiative has already secured £1.8 million (KES 300 million) to develop over 250 inclusive early childhood development centers by 2027, offering thousands of children with disabilities the opportunity to learn alongside their peers.

Dr. Jacqueline Owigo, Social Development Advisor at the British High Commission, summed up the collective sentiment, saying, “The need for collaboration has never been more urgent… Governments, the private sector, civil society, and international partners must come together to create a more inclusive and equitable society.”

Participants at the summit voiced optimism for the future while acknowledging that significant work lies ahead. As Kenya and its partners prepare for the Global Disability Summit in Berlin in April 2025, there is hope that the commitments made in Nairobi will lead to real and lasting change.

“Disability inclusion is not just a goal; it’s a necessity for our shared future,” concluded Wanjau, encapsulating the vision of the summit for a more inclusive society