Building owners in Kirinyaga County have the next five years to ensure that their facilities are accessible to persons living with disabilities. This follows the assent of the Kirinyaga County Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Bill by Governor Anne Waiguru.
This measure aims to create a barrier-free environment, aligning with national and international standards for disability inclusion, such as those outlined in the Persons with Disabilities Act of Kenya.
The enactment of the law marks a significant milestone in ensuring that persons with disabilities in Kirinyaga have access to essential services, opportunities, and representation in decision-making processes.
The new legislation, which was passed by the Kirinyaga County Assembly, guarantees PWDs access to economic opportunities, education, healthcare, and social services. It also ensures free access to county-owned sports and recreational facilities, promoting their participation in community activities.
Additionally, the law mandates representation for PWDs in key decision-making platforms, giving them a stronger voice in governance.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Governor Waiguru emphasised her administration’s commitment to leaving no one behind in the county’s development agenda.
“This law is a testament to our dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity. By ensuring that PWDs have access to education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and public spaces, we are building a more equitable society for all,” she said.
The Kirinyaga County PWD Bill builds on previous efforts by the county government to support PWDs. In recent years, Governor Waiguru has spearheaded initiatives such as the establishment of a one-stop service desk at the county headquarters to streamline access to government services for PWDs.
She has also called for PWDs to register with the NCPWD and the Inua Jamii programme to ensure accurate data for planning and resource allocation.
The Kirinyaga County PWD Bill aligns with national efforts to advance disability rights, as outlined in the Persons with Disabilities Act, which emphasises equal opportunities in education, employment, and access to social services.
According to the 2019 Kenya census, 2.2 per cent of Kenyans live with some form of disability, with women slightly more affected than men (2.5 per cent vs. 1.9 per cent). Initiatives like this are crucial to addressing the systemic barriers faced by PWDs across the country.
As Kirinyaga County takes this progressive step, all eyes will be on the implementation of the bill’s provisions. With a five-year timeline for accessibility improvements and a clear framework for inclusion, the county has set a precedent for others to follow in the journey toward a more inclusive society.
