Dear Fellow Kenyans and Concerned Citizens, Let us end discrimination against persons living with disabilities and build inclusive environments where everyone can learn, work, and thrive.

My name is Warukira Julius Njuguna, and I am a person living with a disability (PLWD) in Kenya. I have faced repeated exclusion and discrimination in both higher education and employment, not because I lack merit, but because the existing programs, infrastructure, and institutional attitudes are not designed to include people like me. Despite meeting academic qualifications and demonstrating my capabilities, I have encountered barriers that restrict my access to opportunities. This experience is not unique to me; it affects countless other persons living with disabilities (PLWD) across our nation. 

In Kenya, PLWD are often left behind in educational settings and public employment sectors due to systemic discrimination and a lack of inclusive provisions. According to the Kenya National Survey for Persons with Disabilities, nearly 12% of the population lives with some form of disability. Yet, there are inadequate policies and programs to ensure their full inclusion in society. This marginalization is a violation of their human rights and contradicts the vision of a fair, equitable, and progressive society.

We urge the Government of Kenya, higher education institutions, regulatory bodies, and public sector employers to take decisive action against this issue. First, revamp the education infrastructure to include accessible facilities, learning materials in formats that PLWDs can access (such as Braille, audio) and assistive technologies. Second, modify employment policies and practices to accommodate the needs of PLWDs, including flexible working conditions and dedicated support programs to ease the transition into the workforce.

Furthermore, create awareness programs to change societal attitudes towards disability, recognizing PLWD as valuable contributors to society. Implement vocational training programs focused on enhancing the skills of PLWDs, empowering them to participate in diverse sectors of the economy. Additionally, establish a robust monitoring and evaluation system to ensure compliance with disability inclusion regulations across education and employment sectors.

The time for change is now. We are calling on individuals, institutions, and the government to stand up for the rights of PLWD, to create a Kenya where education and employment are genuinely inclusive and accessible to all its citizens. Please sign this petition to support this crucial cause and bring about meaningful change for persons living with disabilities in our country.