Kenya has expressed its commitment to the effective
implementation of the principles outlined in the Amman-Berlin declaration on
global disability inclusion.
Social Protection Principal Secretary Joseph Motari said
this declaration represents a critical step forward in ensuring the full
inclusion and empowerment of persons with disability not just in Kenya but
globally.
"We firmly believe that a world where persons with
disabilities are fully included into society is a world that benefits us
all," Motari said.
The PS was speaking during the signing ceremony of the Amman-Berlin
declaration of the global disability summit 2025 in Nairobi on Friday.
He described the declaration as a comprehensive global
commitment that calls for the integration of disability inclusion in all facets
of development, including education, healthcare, employment and social participation.
"By endorsing this declaration, Kenya reaffirms its
dedication to advancing the rights and opportunities for the persons with
disabilities," Motari said.
He revealed that the declaration aligns with the national
values of equality, dignity and non-discrimination as well as the constitutional
obligations, especially as enshrined in Article 54 of the Constitution of Kenya, which calls for the rights of persons with disabilities to be upheld.
"One of the most significant aspects of the declaration
is the inclusion of a target to ensure that at least 15 percent of all
International Cooperation development programs are directly focused on persons
with disabilities,” Motari said.
The PS further said this is a commitment that Kenya is proud
to support as it believes it will enhance the equality of life for persons with
disabilities by ensuring they are not left behind in critical development initiatives.
He added that this target provides the clarity and
accountability needed to guarantee that disability inclusion is prioritized and
adequately resourced.
Motari noted the reforms are essential for persons with
disabilities to have equal access to the opportunities that every citizen
deserves.
"The commitment to meeting the 15 percent target will
help address the systemic barriers that persons with disabilities often face
creating pathways for their full participation in society," Motari said
He noted that the government is committed to ensuring that
persons with disabilities are not just recognized but actively included in
every aspect of the society.
