Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Mandera County have called for greater inclusion, equal representation, and recognition in leadership and development opportunities across the county.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Mandera Town, members of the disability community urged both the County and National governments to ensure Persons with Disabilities are fairly represented in public offices, employment opportunities, and leadership positions, including Parliament.
The leaders said despite constitutional provisions protecting the rights of persons with disabilities, many still face exclusion, discrimination, and limited access to opportunities.
The group emphasized the need for inclusive governance and equitable allocation of resources to support persons living with disabilities in all sub-counties.
Among the issues raised during the meeting were lack of employment opportunities, limited access to assistive devices, inadequate support services, and low representation in decision-making positions.
Billow Abdullahi, the Secretary for PWDs in Mandera County, urged the County government to employ more persons with disabilities across various departments and public institutions.
“We are appealing to the county government to prioritize the inclusion of persons living with disabilities in employment opportunities and leadership positions. We deserve equal chances like every other citizen,” he said.
He further called on the government and development partners to increase funding and release more resources that directly benefit persons with disabilities, including assistive devices, mobility support, educational assistance, and healthcare services.
The leaders also appealed for the expansion of empowerment programmes targeting persons with disabilities, especially those living in remote and marginalized areas of the county.
PWDs attending the meeting noted that empowering persons with disabilities would improve their participation in social, economic, and political development while promoting equality and dignity in society.
The PWD community further urged society to embrace inclusivity and eliminate stigma and discrimination against persons living with disabilities.
By Adan Mohamed
