Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) has called on the government and other partners to increase their investments in assistive devices, early identification of disabilities, and awareness creation in order to accommodate persons with disabilities all over the country.
Speaking at the International Day of the Disabled celebrations on Wednesday, Dr. Norman Kiogora, KISE Director, said that the need for assessment services is increasing and more efforts need to be put into the implementation of laws related to the inclusion of people with disabilities. According to him, Kenya has to speed up its actions to be able to provide specialized support to a fast-growing population.
A large number of parents, children, disability advocates, and development partners met at KISE to analyze issues that have emerged and to find solutions for a society that is more inclusive. Among the issues that people discussed most was the lack of numerous essential devices for people with disabilities such as hearing aids, mobility equipment, laptops, and other technology, which are necessary to independence and learning.
Kiogora said that even everyday items like phones, computers, and vehicles should be either made already in the form suitable for people with disabilities or be modified to meet their needs. He stressed that accessibility should be the core of all technology and any way of providing services.
Participants at the event appreciated the change in the attitudes of parents towards their children with disabilities and noted that more families are now recognizing the disabilities of their children and seeking help.
Nevertheless, they cautioned that there are still many parents in different parts of the country who do not have enough information about assessment services, therapies and that the government support programmes.
Besides, Dr. Kiogora expressed his worry about the increasing number of autism cases not only in Kenya but worldwide as well. Referring to data, he stated that although data is still changing, the rate of the condition is on the rise.
He suggested more training for the workforce, more availability of therapy, and more intake of patients in well-equipped facilities.
Later, KISE and its partners pledged once again to work towards inclusive policies and to see to it that PWDs get the help, the respect, and the same rights as others that they deserve.
