By Lorraine Anyango
As the midday sun beat down on the corrugated iron roof of Otieno Oyoo Secondary School, a different kind of warmth was radiating—the warmth of shared purpose and hope. This was the culmination of Kisumu’s celebration of the UN World Persons with Disabilities Day, a gathering unified by the theme, “Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress.” The air was charged with anticipation as the event brought together leaders, partners, and community members in a powerful, singular call for the inclusion, dignity, and empowerment of persons living with disabilities.
Gracing the event were esteemed guests, including Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili and the CECs for Education and Governance, John Awiti and Salmon Orimba, respectively. Their presence, alongside George Odhiambo from the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and Ms. Sarah Bae leading the Miral Foundation team, visibly underscored the collective responsibility shared by government, development partners, and the community.
Dr. Owili, spoke passionately, framing the County’s commitment to equality and inclusivity not as a matter of charity, but as an indispensable human right. He highlighted concrete progress—the expansion of accessibility in public spaces, the bolstering of social protection programs, and, crucially, the effort to weave the voices of PWDs more prominently into the fabric of policy-making. This sentiment was echoed by Mr. Odhiambo, who strongly emphasized that true inclusivity must extend fully into the workplace.
During the event, Miral Kenya Foundation shared its long-standing dedication to supporting socially underprivileged groups. Established in 1993, driven by Christian principles and guided by values of sincerity, equality, respect, cooperation, and love, Miral’s mission is the complete social inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Mirale showcased ongoing programs for both children and adults, all guided by a “comprehensive righthand approach”—an operating principle designed to genuinely reflect the needs and perspectives experienced by the PWD community itself.
The lively display and interactions throughout the forum served to advance their core mission of achieving full social integration. As the day drew to a close, the energy remained high. The celebration had successfully created an essential platform for awareness, a moment to acknowledge achievements, and a powerful opportunity to renew Kisumu County’s solemn promise: to build an inclusive society where every single resident, without distinction of ability, can participate fully and equally in shaping their future.