by Lorraine Anyango
Kisumu County is a proud member of the Regional Collaborative Hub, a forum dedicated to advancing disability inclusion across various sectors. Ms. Carolyn Agwanda, Advisor to the Governor on Disability, represented the county at a recent forum meeting.
A Platform for Collaboration:
The Hub brings together stakeholders from various backgrounds:
- International organizations
- Local and national organizations
- Government entities (county and national), including the National Council of Persons with Disability (NCPWD)
- CBM Global Disability Inclusion, the Hub’s primary funder
Shared Goals, Collective Action:
The Hub’s core objective is to foster inclusion in community work undertaken by both government and non-governmental organizations. This collaboration can occur virtually or in person, depending on the situation.
Key Hub Activities:
- Connecting Members: The Hub identifies and connects members to training and learning opportunities within the Hub network and the broader inclusion, development, and emergency response sectors.
- Advocacy: The Hub facilitates collaboration on advocacy goals at the county and national levels, promoting a unified voice for disability inclusion.
- Resource Mobilization: The Hub streamlines the process of partner identification and proposal development for joint fundraising efforts.
- Exchange and Monitoring: Hub members participate in joint visits to project sites, facilitating exchange of knowledge and joint monitoring as needed.
- Project Management: The Hub promotes collaboration on project cycle management to ensure greater inclusivity.
CBM Global Disability Inclusion’s Strategic Focus:
During the forum, CBM Global Disability Inclusion launched its strategic plan, highlighting its commitment to supporting the mental well-being of people with disabilities. This launch ensures the Regional Collaborative Hub aligns with CBM’s broader strategy.
Open to All:
The Hub welcomes partners and stakeholders to join online or in-person meetings. The platform provides opportunities for:
- Sharing experiences and best practices
- Discussing and addressing emerging challenges
- Identifying and attending training and learning opportunities
- Working collectively towards a more inclusive society
A Unified Approach:
The Regional Collaborative Hub complements existing platforms, fostering a more coordinated, inclusive, and regular space for collaboration. This platform prioritizes communities as the core of its work, ensuring their needs are central to all efforts.
