People with disabilities in Garissa demand inclusion, leadership roles on International Day

People with Disabilities (PWDs) in Garissa County have called for inclusivity, leadership roles, and an end to persistent discrimination during celebrations to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, held in Garissa Town.

Aden Bille Hassan, the Garissa County chairperson for PWDs, emphasised the need for greater representation in leadership roles. He stated that PWDs in leadership could champion efforts to eliminate the persistent denial of basic rights and services for vulnerable members of society.

"Recently, one of our members was appointed as a chief officer in a newly created department for PWDs. It is through his efforts that we now have a large-scale event to mark this international day in Garissa Town, attended by officials from the national and county governments, donor partners, and civil society. We need more leadership roles in the county government to advocate for the rights of PWDs," he said.

The PWDs, members of the public, representatives of non-governmental organisations and civil society mark the International Day for People With Disability at Garissa Primary playground. (Issa Hussein)

Aden also stressed the importance of inclusivity in county government activities and the need to empower PWDs.

Speaking at Garissa Primary School playground, where hundreds gathered under the theme "Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future," he highlighted the neglect PWDs have faced and called for measures to address the injustices they have endured.

He also appealed for support to construct an office for PWDs on a piece of land allocated for the group in Garissa Town.

"We need an office where we can hold discussions to empower PWDs and store wheelchairs donated to the group. Any support to help us achieve this dream will be greatly appreciated," he pleaded.

Garissa Governor Nathif Jama addressing the public. (Issa Hussein)

Hibo Salat Wardere, another member of the PWD community, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the challenges faced by PWDs in Garissa County and urging leaders and non-governmental organisations to focus on supporting the vulnerable group.

Garissa Governor Nathif Jama, the event's chief guest, reaffirmed his commitment to promoting the rights of PWDs in the county. He noted the creation of a special directorate for PWDs, headed by a chief officer from the group.

"As a county, we have even surpassed the 5 per cent job allocation for PWDs. We currently employ 115 individuals from this group and are committed to promoting some to leadership roles under special consideration," the governor stated.

He also directed the county public service board to ensure job opportunities for PWDs in the upcoming recruitment of Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) teachers. Furthermore, the governor announced that PWDs would benefit from the county’s newly launched revolving fund loan programme designed to empower youth, women, and PWDs.

County Executive Committee Member for Education Ebla Minhaj. (Issa Hussein)

The governor revealed plans to host a major forum for PWDs in Garissa, involving donor agencies and civil society, to discuss strategies for improving the livelihoods of PWDs.

Garissa County Commissioner Mohamed Mwabudzo noted the importance of fighting discrimination against PWDs in all aspects of society.

"The 2010 Constitution is very clear on the rights of inclusivity for PWDs. They must be considered for job opportunities and other initiatives to improve their living standards. Let us all commit to standing up for the rights of this special group," he said.

Hibo Salat Wardere, vice chair for Garissa County PWDs. (Issa Hussein)

Ebla Minhaj, Garissa County Executive Committee member for Education, announced an upcoming survey to identify children with disabilities not currently accessing special schools.

She noted that many children with special needs are still confined to their homes, and the county is committed to assessing and providing opportunities for children with mental, visual, and hearing impairments.