Turkana County is set to host this year’s International Day for persons with Disability. Celebrated every December 3 with this year’s theme being ‘Fostering disability inclusive societies for advancing social progress’.
The celebration aims to raise awareness on the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders to promote inclusion and empowerment.
Speaking during a meeting with the national and county organising committees, Acting County Executive for Education, Sports and Social Protection, Dr Anthony Apalia, commended the joint committees and reaffirmed the county’s commitment to ensuring successful coordination of this important event.
“We are honoured to host this important international event and will do everything possible to promote awareness and foster inclusivity for persons with disabilities,” said Dr Apalia.
He added that the celebration will coincide with the county’s vibrant Tobong’u Lore Cultural Festival, creating a unique platform that blends celebration, awareness creation, and inclusion under one roof.
Representing the national government, Richard Bosire, Director for State Department for Social Protection, urged the county to align its activities with the newly launched Persons with Disabilities Policy (2024) and the Persons with Disabilities Act (2025).
“Our aim is to ensure these national frameworks are reflected in all local actions and regulations,” he said.
Echoing this, Paul Lodung’a, County Chief Officer for ECDE and Social Protection, pledged to fast-track county regulations to operationalise the policy at the local level.
“We are also facilitating the participation of 33 PWD leaders and representatives drawn from all sub-counties in this year’s event,” he added.
From the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Samson Njapit, Corporate Communications lead, reaffirmed the council’s support for making the celebration both impactful and memorable.
“Having hosted previous events in pastoral counties like Narok and West Pokot, we are excited to see Turkana take the lead this year,” noted Njapit.
James Kiptoo, Turkana County Coordinator for Social Development, emphasised that the organising committee will continue to monitor and provide the necessary support.
He highlighted that the celebration presents a valuable opportunity for the county to showcase the potential and contributions of persons with disabilities in the communities.
The County NCPWD Coordinator, Benson Ebei, acknowledged UNHCR and other stakeholders, noting that the event will bring together more than 1,200 participants from all sub-counties, including the refugee community.
He added that plans are underway to provide assistive devices, trainings, and tools of trade to empower PWDs and promote self-reliance.
Present were County Director for Social Protection James Ekanyuku, Rose Mwangangi from the national Social Protection Directorate, and Linda Chebet from NCPWD.
By Peter Gitonga
