Parliament has committed to empowering and supporting persons with disabilities (PWDs) across the nation.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula made the commitment during a meeting with Kenya Disability and Parliamentary Association (KEDIPA) and PWD Members of Parliament from both Houses.
KEDIPA led by Westlands MP Tim Wanyonyi reiterated its unwavering commitment to ensuring that PWDs have a voice in the Kenyan Parliament.
They promised to promote full inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities, and actively countering discrimination against PWDs.
Wetang’ula emphasised the importance of raising awareness about disabilities to also bring about a more inclusive society.
He said the focus must extend beyond urban centers to encompass remote regions such as Turkana and Mandera.
“We should keep in mind that disability knows no boundaries and can affect anyone, anywhere,” the Speaker stated.
He said the National Assembly will accord precedence to the Persons With Disabilities Act of 2023, which seeks to repeal the Persons With Disabilities Act of 2003.
“This strategic prioritisation is essential to ensure harmonisation with the Kenyan Constitution and the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which Kenya ratified," he explained.
"This legislative move signifies the dedication of the Kenyan Parliament to enact measures that truly align with the needs of the disability sector.”
Wetang’ula assured of his resolute support for KEDIPA in creating awareness and fostering impactful change within the disability sector.
He stressed that disability can affect anyone, and should never define a person or be a source of shame.
He added that the human spirit within each individual should always be celebrated and uplifted, regardless of any condition.
“I will support KEDIPA in creating awareness and impact in the disability sector to change the narrative in Africa where some people are ashamed of their kin if they are differently abled, yet it can happen to anyone. The human spirit in a person should never be suppressed by any condition,” said the Speaker.
He maintained that there should be a shift towards a more inclusive and supportive society for all Kenyan citizens, where every voice is heard, and every person's worth is recognised, cherished, and celebrated.
