Persons With Disabilities in Migori Push for Full Enforcement of New Affirmative Action Law
President William Ruto signed into law the Persons with Disabilities Act 2025, a move described by experts as a huge milestone for disability rights in kenya.
Persons with Disabilities in Migori County Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
Persons with Disabilities in Migori County are calling on both the National and County Governments to fully implement the Persons with Disabilities Act 2025, noting that the law remains largely unused despite its potential to make huge improvements in their lives.
The appeal was made during celebrations to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, held at Migori Primary School in Suna West Sub-County. This year’s theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” set the tone for renewed demands for accountability and inclusion from the authorities.
People present at the event expressed frustration that several months into the signing of the law, most of its provisions had not been applied. They argued that delays in operationalising the Act continue to expose persons with disabilities to discrimination, lack of opportunities, and limited access to essential services.
Former Migori County Woman Representative Denita Ghati, who attended the celebration, called on relevant government agencies to take immediate steps to enforce the Act as intended. She emphasized that the legislation was passed to address long-standing gaps in the rights of persons with disabilities and access to services.
In May 2025, President William Ruto signed into law the Persons with Disabilities Act 2025, a move described by experts as a huge milestone for disability rights and mental health services in Kenya. The Act is meant to fortify legal protection, advance equality, and bring the laws of Kenya into conformity with both the Constitution and international standards.
Ghati, who served as a nominated Member of Parliament representing persons with disabilities in the 12th Parliament, declared that the country was still struggling to fully uphold disability rights. She promised to continue drumming up support for reforms that advance recognition, inclusion, and efficient service delivery for persons living with disabilities.
The Act purports to give effect to Articles 2(6), 27, 54, and 260 of the Constitution of Kenya, as well as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It purports to secure the dignity and well-being of all persons with disabilities in respect of matters relating to their basic human rights, and to encourage their equitable participation in social and economic development.
Prof. Rose Ogwang, the Migori County Chief Officer for Gender and Inclusivity, assured the residents that PWDs would be included in all county programmes. She said their input and participation would be key in the county’s socio-cultural and economic development.
However, Prof. Ogwang appealed to local communities and non-governmental organisations to collaborate with county authorities in supporting persons with disabilities. She emphasized that meaningful inclusion requires a collective effort of the government, civil society, and citizens.
Moses Jakait, a health stakeholder present, echoed the need for early medical assessments, use of assistive devices, and access to quality healthcare services for disability conditions. He added that strengthening the health system was central to reducing preventable disabilities and improving quality of life. The event concluded with calls for stronger data collection systems, enhanced public participation, and effective policies that ensure equal opportunities for all persons with disabilities.
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