KEDIPA Champions Bold Reforms to Break Systemic Barriers for Persons with Disabilities

Kenya Disability Parliamentary Association (KEDIPA), chaired by Hon. Timothy Wanyonyi, has announced a series of ambitious reforms aimed at eliminating systemic barriers faced by persons with disabilities across Kenya. The move comes after a multi-sector engagement with key institutions, marking a shift from policy intent to actionable measures that directly impact the daily lives of persons with disabilities.

Working closely with the Parliamentary Committee on Social Protection, KEDIPA convened stakeholders to confront the lived realities of persons with disabilities and design solutions that enhance inclusion, accessibility, and dignity.

During the engagements, legislators raised pressing concerns about the challenges faced by disabled passengers at airports. Members highlighted distressing incidents, including a wheelchair user left stranded at Moi International Airport due to a lack of personnel and essential boarding equipment. KEDIPA further criticized inadequate infrastructure such as the absence of designated parking and inclusive facilities, as well as outdated practices where individuals are physically carried because of insufficient machinery. The caucus has directed Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) to urgently modernize airport facilities, ensure mobility aids are available, and train staff to maintain dignity, safety, and professionalism.

KEDIPA also engaged with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to address discriminatory tax frameworks that exclude neurodiverse individuals and persons with invisible disabilities. The caucus called for humane assessment processes, expanded legal recognition, and an end to repeated reviews for persons with permanent disabilities. Training of officers and improved inter-agency coordination were highlighted as key steps to ensuring equitable service delivery.

The caucus further stressed the need to restore disability mainstreaming indicators in institutional performance contracts to measure progress effectively. Discussions with the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) emphasized empowering educators supporting learners with disabilities through targeted training, resources, and institutional support. They also explored measures to assist teachers with spouses or children with special needs.

Additionally, the National Police Service Commission committed to developing post-retirement medical cover for officers, establishing a dedicated Disability Management Unit, and creating compensation frameworks for officers who sustain serious injuries, ensuring disability inclusion across both uniformed and civilian cadres.

KEDIPA also tackled barriers to economic empowerment, including limited awareness and staffing challenges that affect access to government procurement opportunities, particularly in rural areas. The caucus emphasized the need for targeted outreach, improved coordination, and stronger support systems to enable full participation in economic and social programs.

In a joint statement, members of KEDIPA pledged to dismantle systemic obstacles and promote a more inclusive Kenya where dignity, equity, and opportunity for persons with disabilities are fully realized. Hon. Wanyonyi underscored that the reforms are not just policy measures but practical steps aimed at improving the lived experiences of millions of Kenyans.

“These reforms reflect our commitment to building a Kenya where every person, regardless of ability, can live with dignity, access opportunities, and fully participate in society,” said Hon. Wanyonyi.

The initiative is expected to set a new benchmark for disability inclusion in Kenya, with measurable targets across airports, education, law enforcement, taxation, and economic empowerment programs.