First Lady wants more done for people with disability

First Lady Margaret Kenyatta has expressed concern that people living with disability are among the most marginalized, least empowered and disadvantaged social groups in the country.

She wants people of disability to be given priority in policy and legislation to ensure physically challenged people can be able to effortlessly access amenities.

The policy framework will center on guidelines that enforce compliance to friendly structures and facilities for elderly people and the disabled.

“We must enforce guidelines, existing standards and legislation and adopt attitudes to the benefit of all people of all ages, no matter their status in life,” said the First Lady.

Speaking at the Association for the Physically Disabled at Kenya Headquarters, July 21, 2017, she said there are many restrictions in buildings and roads that makes it difficult for disabled persons to access, participate and enjoy state amenities.

“We must no longer tolerate multiple barriers that make it difficult or impossible for persons with disability to function and access services,”  said the First Lady.

She launched the APDK’s Strategic 2017-2020 Plan, and was joined at the launch by APDK patron and former Vice President Moody Awori and the Association’s National Chairman and National Director Messrs Fred Owako and Gedion Muga respectively.

However, she added that policy and legislation alone will not solve the discrimination that physically disabled people face every day. There is need for a change of attitude and behaviour among individual Kenyans.

The First Lady applauded the APDK for their dedication, energy, commitment and investment towards improving the quality of lives of people with disability.