- Kenya has enacted the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2023, to replace the outdated 2003 version.
- The law introduces fair job opportunities, financial relief, and stronger legal protection for persons with disabilities (PWDs).
- It also demands inclusive infrastructure, education reforms, and fair treatment in courts and workplaces.
- The law highlights women with disabilities and recognises their double challenges in society.
- This marks a key step toward an equal and accessible future for all Kenyans.
For millions of Kenyans living with disabilities, daily life remains a constant struggle — filled with visible and hidden hurdles that many people without disabilities may never notice. Whether it’s boarding a matatu, visiting a public office, or just navigating stairs, basic tasks become complicated challenges.
Despite Kenya’s Constitution promoting equality, persons with disabilities often feel overlooked by systems that were not made with them in mind. Social stigma, poor infrastructure, and lack of support have kept many locked out of opportunities they deserve.
A Step Toward Change: New Law Signed to Empower PWDs
Hope is on the horizon. A major shift has come with the signing of the Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2023 by President William Ruto. This updated law replaces the outdated 2003 version and pushes for true inclusion, dignity, and support for persons with disabilities in all parts of society.
Senator Crystal Asige, who sponsored the bill, explained that the aim is to give PWDs the rights, services, and protections already promised by the Constitution. The law focuses on real changes that will benefit PWDs in employment, education, healthcare, and justice.
The Reality: What Persons with Disabilities Still Face
Although progress is underway, these are some of the main challenges faced by persons with disabilities in Kenya:
Stigma in Society
Negative beliefs around disability are still strong. Many people see disability as a burden or curse, leading to isolation and rejection. This can make life even harder for those trying to live independently and earn a living.
2. Lack of Accessible Environments
Public transport, buildings, toilets, and roads often don’t accommodate people with physical challenges. Many places still lack ramps, lifts, or adapted washrooms, limiting mobility and freedom.
Joblessness and Poverty
PWDs are more likely to be unemployed. Many companies do not offer chances for them, and workplaces are often not accessible. This forces many into poverty due to a lack of income and support.
Healthcare That Excludes
Hospitals rarely cater to disabled patients properly. Facilities lack ramps and staff may not be trained on how to care for persons with special needs. Some even struggle to access vital health or social services.
Barriers in Education and Workplaces
While some schools have improved, many still do not offer proper learning materials like braille, sign language, or assistive technology. Teachers may also lack the training to support learners with disabilities. In the job market, most PWDs are overlooked or denied growth opportunities.
Women Face Double Disadvantage
Women with disabilities face gender and disability discrimination. They are often denied basic rights like education, healthcare, and property ownership.
COVID-19 Worsened the Struggle
During the pandemic, PWDs were hit hardest. Many lost jobs, access to healthcare, and faced delays in getting mobility tools or medicines. For those relying on public communication, lack of accessible updates made things worse.
Lack of Quality Data
Without proper records and data on PWDs, past policies have failed to provide proper support. The new law intends to change that by demanding more accurate reporting and planning.
Key Promises in the New Disability Law
Employment and Job Inclusion
5% Job Reservations: All employers must set aside at least 5% of job slots for PWDs.
Flexible Retirement Age: PWDs can now retire at 65 instead of 60, allowing longer employment.
Employer Incentives: Companies that hire and support PWDs will enjoy tax deductions.
Financial and Tax Benefits
No More Tax Renewals: PWDs will now receive a lifetime tax exemption.
Caregiver Support: Guardians of disabled persons may qualify for monthly stipends and annual tax reliefs.
Legal Justice and Protection
Free Court Access: PWDs will not pay legal fees and will be provided with sign language or braille services in court.
Heavy Penalties for Abuse: Crimes like assault or exploitation of PWDs now carry stiff fines and jail terms, even life imprisonment in extreme cases.
Better Public Spaces and Transport
Disability-Friendly Vehicles: Matatus and buses must be modified for wheelchair access. The government will help cover costs.
Improved Infrastructure: All new public buildings must be accessible with ramps and elevators.
Affordable Housing: 5% of public housing and markets will be reserved for PWDs.
Inclusive Education and Media Access
Kenyan Sign Language in Schools: All universities and colleges must offer KSL as a subject.
Disability Awareness in Media: Media stations must dedicate at least one hour monthly to disability awareness and avoid content that promotes stigma.
Stronger Disability Institutions
NCPD to Enforce Standards: The National Council for Persons with Disabilities will now have more power to register and monitor accessibility standards countrywide.
Why This Law Is a Big Deal
This law goes beyond paperwork. It’s about restoring dignity, creating fairness, and giving everyone a chance. It recognises that persons with disabilities are capable and deserve access to the same opportunities as everyone else.
With this law in place, the government is not just talking — it’s acting. It sends a clear message: disability is not inability. Every Kenyan, regardless of physical ability, deserves to live, learn, and work with equal respect and rights.
