The Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) has launched the Inuka Foundation, a new corporate initiative aimed at supporting the education of bright students living with disabilities and those from underprivileged backgrounds. This move was revealed to the National Assembly Committee on Cohesion and Equal Opportunities during a session chaired by Nakuru County MP Hon. Liza Chelule.
KPC Managing Director Mr. Joe Sang informed the committee that the Inuka Foundation is part of the company’s broader corporate social responsibility efforts to promote inclusion and equal access to education.
“In an effort to support Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) in our society, the company has proactively established the Inuka Foundation,” said Mr. Sang.
He explained that the Foundation sponsors two bright students annually—drawn from across the country—for secondary and university education. Since its inception, the programme has supported 735 students, providing them with the opportunity to pursue education and secure a better future.
“This is part of our commitment to ensure that children from disadvantaged backgrounds, particularly those living with disabilities, can access quality education, which is a fundamental right,” he added.
While commending KPC for the educational initiative, Hon. Chelule raised a critical concern regarding the company’s compliance with constitutional employment provisions for persons living with disabilities.
“From your report, it is evident that you have not met the five percent requirement for employing persons with disabilities,” she said, referring to Article 54(2) of the Constitution which mandates that at least five percent of all public institution employees should be PLWDs.
According to the report submitted to the Committee, only 54 employees—representing four percent of KPC’s workforce—are registered as PLWDs, falling short of the legal threshold.
Hon. Chelule called on the company to take immediate steps to improve inclusivity in its hiring practices, especially given the high number of qualified persons with disabilities still struggling to find employment.
In response, Mr. Sang acknowledged the shortfall and committed to working closely with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) during future recruitment processes.
“To help bridge the gap, KPC informs the NCPD of all arising vacancies so they can recommend qualified members,” he said.
The Committee urged other state corporations to emulate KPC’s steps in empowering vulnerable groups through education, while also fulfilling constitutional obligations to promote inclusivity in the workforce.
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