Nairobi:Kenya is being encouraged to enhance its investment in assistive technology and local production to ensure that persons with disabilities can fully participate in various aspects of life, including education and employment.
According to Kenya News Agency, during the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) 2026 Conference in Nairobi, Dr. Isaac Mwaura emphasized the need for practical solutions to move beyond diagnosing exclusion. Mwaura, who leads the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Disability Rights in the Executive Office of the President, highlighted that stigma and negative attitudes remain significant barriers for those with disabilities.
Mwaura referred to the World Health Organization and UNICEF’s 2022 Global Report on Assistive Technology, which notes that over 2.5 billion people globally need at least one assistive product, with nearly one billion lacking access. He stressed the need for accurate disability data in Kenya, citing underreporting in the 2019 Census.
He recognized Kenya’s legal framework supporting disability inclusion but pointed out the gap between policy and actual experiences. Mwaura called for better local production of assistive devices and the use of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence to enhance accessibility.
Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris echoed the call for practical solutions, urging the expansion of facilities like KISE across the country. She advocated for accessible housing, transport systems, and affordable assistive devices, stressing the importance of local repair capabilities.
Passaris also emphasized the need for inclusive product development and improved teacher training. She called for stronger protections for women and girls with disabilities and urged stakeholders to create affordable assistive devices and accessible services, ensuring persons with disabilities have a say in decisions affecting them.
