NCCK CALLS FOR DIGNITY AND INCLUSION FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN KENYA.
Over 60 persons with disabilities from 20 counties gathered at the Jumuia Conference and Country Home for a two-day Pre-Assembly organized by the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK). The event, held as a precursor to the NCCK's 65th General Assembly, focused on "Redefining Disability: Recognizing and Appreciating Disabilities."
The Pre-Assembly underscored the urgent need for deliberate measures to ensure the inclusion, empowerment, and integration of the approximately one million Kenyans living with disabilities. Participants highlighted the persistent exclusion and stigmatization faced by persons with disabilities, driven by ignorance and negative societal attitudes.
Key Recommendations and Messages:
1. Dignity for Persons with Disabilities:
Participants emphasized the necessity for societal stakeholders to promote the dignity and full participation of persons with disabilities in all spheres of life. Citing John 10:10, the communique stressed that everyone deserves to live life to its fullest extent.
2. Role of the Church:
The NCCK called on churches to be more inclusive, urging congregations to welcome and involve persons with disabilities in ministry and leadership roles. Churches were also encouraged to make their buildings accessible and to celebrate a dedicated day for persons with disabilities, fostering their confidence and social integration.
3. National Government Action:
The communique called on the government to provide regular updates on the implementation of Article 54(2) of the Constitution, which mandates that at least five percent of public positions be held by persons with disabilities. Specific appeals included:
- Reviewing university entry requirements for students from special education backgrounds.
- Judicial intervention to dissolve county assemblies lacking proper representation of persons with disabilities.
- Ensuring cash transfers reach all registered persons with disabilities.
- Expediting the review of the Persons with Disabilities Bill 2024.
4. County Government Responsibilities:
County governments were urged to support dignified livelihoods for persons with disabilities by exempting their businesses from duties and taxes. The establishment of PWD-friendly sports facilities and the integration of disability policies into county laws were also highlighted.
5. Inclusion in Society:
All Kenyans were reminded that disability is not inability, and were called to recognize and nurture the talents of persons with disabilities. The communique referenced Article 54(1)(a) of the Constitution, which ensures that persons with disabilities are treated with dignity and respect.
6. Empowerment and Leadership:
Persons with disabilities were encouraged to seek leadership roles in public, private, and political sectors, and to actively participate in the Constitution of Kenya (Amendment) Bill 2024 discussions. The NCCK urged them to present memoranda to the Senate and engage with political parties to enhance their representation and influence in decision-making processes.
7. Focus on Children with Disabilities:
The communique emphasized the special vulnerability of children with disabilities, calling on parents and caregivers to support and nurture their potential. Safe environments in homes, schools, and communities were deemed essential for their development.
The event concluded with a call for all Kenyans to honor and serve God by including, empowering, and integrating persons with disabilities into social life. The NCCK reiterated its commitment to building a just and inclusive society, in line with the values espoused in Kenya's National Anthem.
Pastor Geoffrey Wanyoike, Chairperson of the NCCK PWDs Pre-Assembly, expressed hope for a future where persons with disabilities are fully integrated and respected in all aspects of life.
