Commissioner Dr. Wamalwa Dennis joined key national stakeholders, legislators, and disability rights experts for a strategic capacity-building engagement held at Four Points by Sheraton. The meeting brought together representatives from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), Parliament, civil society, and development partners to strengthen understanding and oversight of Kenya’s obligations toward persons with disabilities.
The session aimed at equipping Members of Parliament and institutional representatives with updated knowledge on existing and emerging disability frameworks, with a strong focus on enhancing accountability, inclusion, and compliance with national and international standards.
Opening Session
The meeting commenced with a welcoming session led by Caucus Chairs and representatives from KNCHR, setting a collaborative tone for the day. Participants shared reflections on the importance of inclusive governance and reaffirmed the need for collective action in ensuring the protection of persons with disabilities across all sectors.
UNCRPD and Kenya’s Obligations
The first technical session, facilitated by Dr. Samuel Kabue, a Member of the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), provided an in-depth overview of the Convention’s articles and Kenya’s commitments. Dr. Kabue took participants through the ratification journey, key State Party obligations, and mechanisms for parliamentary oversight in monitoring implementation.
He emphasized the need for stronger national measures to safeguard rights, promote non-discrimination, and ensure accessible and inclusive public services.
Persons with Disabilities Act 2025
Session Two was delivered by Commissioner Dr. Lawrence Mute, who unpacked the proposed Persons with Disabilities Act 2025. The presentation highlighted essential provisions, including government obligations, accessibility standards, incentives for compliance, tax reliefs, and strengthened monitoring frameworks.
Participants engaged deeply on the importance of aligning the Act with lived experiences of persons with disabilities and ensuring practical enforcement at county and national levels.
National Policy on Persons with Disabilities
The third session, led by Susan Wekesa from the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), focused on the National Policy on Persons with Disabilities. Ms. Wekesa outlined the policy’s vision, strategic objectives, and cross-sectoral approaches required to mainstream disability inclusion. She underscored the role of stakeholders—government, civil society, private sector, and development partners—in fostering a conducive environment where persons with disabilities can meaningfully participate in social, economic, and political life.
Rights of Children with Disabilities
The fourth session, facilitated by Shantal Onyango from CRADLE/PGA, addressed the rights of children with disabilities, with particular emphasis on post-assessment care, support systems, and safeguarding their best interests. The session called for stronger protections within child welfare mechanisms and enhanced coordination between State and non-State actors.
Interactive Session and Closing
Commissioner Dr. Wamalwa joined the KNCHR Secretariat in leading the interactive Q&A session, allowing participants to raise concerns, seek clarifications, and propose recommendations for improving disability reforms.
The meeting concluded with remarks by the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Caucus on Persons with Disabilities (PGA), who commended KNCHR and partners for advancing inclusive legislative dialogue. Participants received certificates of participation, followed by commitments from Members of Parliament to strengthen advocacy, mobilize resources, and support progressive reforms that uphold the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities.
A lunch session provided an opportunity for continued engagement and networking among stakeholders.
Commissioner Wamalwa’s Reflections
Commissioner Dr. Wamalwa reaffirmed KNCHR’s commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, noting that inclusive legislation and policy enforcement remain essential pillars in safeguarding human dignity. He emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration between Parliament, oversight institutions, and rights-holders to ensure no one is left behind.
