Public institutions in Kenya are under pressure from Members of Parliament to overhaul systems that hinder persons with disabilities from accessing essential services with respect and safety.
The Kenya Disability Parliamentary Association (KEDIPA) has warned that without urgent reforms, these barriers will continue to deny many citizens their rights and dignity.
Lawmakers highlighted the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) as a critical concern, pointing to repeated failures to provide adequate boarding equipment, accessible facilities, and trained personnel for wheelchair users.
Chairperson Timothy Wanyonyi noted an alarming incident at Moi International Airport, where a passenger in a wheelchair was left stranded because staff were not prepared to assist and necessary mobility aids were missing.
The legislators also criticized the absence of designated parking and the practice of manually lifting passengers in place of proper equipment, calling it humiliating and unsafe.
KEDIPA urged for “immediate modernisation of airport infrastructure, ensuring mobility aids are available, and staff receive mandatory training to uphold dignity, safety and professionalism.”
The focus extended to the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), where members flagged exclusionary practices in tax exemption processes.
They stressed that neurodiverse individuals and persons with invisible disabilities are often left out due to cumbersome procedures. The group recommended “expanded legal recognition, humane assessment procedures, an end to repetitive reviews for permanent disabilities and enhanced training for officers managing these processes.”
Further discussions centered on improving institutional coordination, aligning data systems, and restoring disability inclusion targets in performance evaluations to ensure tangible progress.
At the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), the MPs discussed strengthening support for teachers who instruct learners with disabilities. They proposed targeted training, adequate resources, and institutional mechanisms to help teachers effectively meet these learners’ needs. Lawmakers also raised the importance of providing support for teachers with family members who have special needs.
The National Police Service Commission committed to creating post-retirement medical coverage for officers, forming a Disability Management Unit, and introducing compensation frameworks for officers who suffer serious injuries. These measures are intended for both uniformed and civilian staff to guarantee equal protection and access.
Economic barriers were also highlighted, particularly how limited awareness and staffing shortages restrict persons with disabilities from participating in government procurement, especially in rural regions. KEDIPA stressed the importance of outreach programs, better inter-agency collaboration, and stronger support networks to increase inclusion.
The MPs concluded by reiterating their determination to break down systemic barriers and ensure that persons with disabilities in Kenya can access services, opportunities, and rights on an equal footing with all citizens.
