The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has raised the alarm over a group calling itself the “National Council for Parents of Children with Disabilities in Kenya,” saying it is not registered with the relevant authorities and its name could mislead the public into assuming government affiliation.
The Council cautioned that the group has been recruiting members despite lacking legal status, posing risks around transparency, accountability, and the handling of sensitive personal data.
In a circular signed by Dr. Michael Munene, the CEO of NCPWD, dated 21st January 2026, the Council states: “The name of this group closely resembles that of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), a statutory government agency established under the Persons with Disabilities Act. The similarity in naming is likely to cause confusion among parents, persons with disabilities, stakeholders and the general public, who may mistakenly believe that the group is a government body or is formally affiliated with NCPWD.”
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NCPWD emphasized that while parents and civil society organisations have a constitutional right to associate and advocate for children with disabilities, non‑governmental entities must present themselves with clarity and avoid any impression of statutory authority. As the circular notes: “Any association, movement or organisation that is not a government entity should clearly distinguish itself from statutory institutions to avoid misleading the public.”
The Council’s notice highlights particular concern over the collection and use of sensitive personal data of persons with disabilities and their families. It warns that persons with disabilities are a protected and vulnerable group whose information must be handled with the highest standards of confidentiality, consent, and compliance with data protection and disability laws. “Any misuse of such data or misrepresentation of authority could expose individuals and families to exploitation or harm,” the circular cautions.
NCPWD has urged parents, guardians, and the wider public to verify the legal status of any organisation before registering as members, sharing personal information, or making financial contributions.
The Council reiterated that only NCPWD, which is established by law, is mandated to register persons with disabilities, issue disability registration certificates, coordinate disability mainstreaming in government, and advise the State on disability policy and programmes.
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However, Dr. Munene confirmed that the Council has engaged some officials from the group and established that it is not yet registered. He outlined agreements reached to prevent further confusion and protect the public which include, that it shall change its name to avoid confusion with NCPWD, redraft its objectives to avoid duplicating NCPWD’s functions and register formally before engaging in member recruitment or other activities.
Dr. Munene said NCPWD remains committed to collaborating with parents’ associations, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders to advance the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities, provided such work is ethical, lawful, transparent, and free from any action that may mislead or take advantage of persons with disabilities and their families.
By Masaki Enock
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