Fredrick Odiero
The Kisumu County Executive Committee member for education Mr. John Awiti wants youths living with various physical challenges within the education sector to be given the desired attention with specific focus on issues like reproductive health.
Speaking during a stakeholder forum to discuss the way forward, Awiti indicated that such people should be accorded utmost respect.
Awiti said the special group more often than not experiences a number of prejudices within learning institutions.
He said the office of the Kisumu County Governor under the tutelage of Professor Peter Anyang Nyong’o has a special advisor over such issues.
“The group should also be incorporated in issues such as reproductive health programmes,” he said.
Awiti said the county government will ensure that young people’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) are protected and respected.
He said there should be more focus on unrestricted access to comprehensive youth friendly services and access to comprehensive information and space for young people’s voices free from stigma, discrimination and violence.
Awiti said his department particularly works with civil society organizations at country levels to strengthen the visibility of young advocates working on sexual and reproductive rights.
“This will increase their ability to hold the government and other duty bearers to account for the adoption and allocation of budgets and implementation of projects,” he said.
The official said there is legislation and policies in line with international norms and standards governing the same issues.
“In doing so in the long run, it hopes to increase support within society for young people’s improved access to comprehensive sexuality education and to youth friendly,” he added.
During the occasion, a number of organizations entered into a partnership with the Kisumu Government over a number of issues such as rights of minority groups.
Director of Culture Pamela Adhiambo said people with special needs have a special space within the constitution.
Adhiambo said people with special needs should be protected from all forms of violence and stigma of any form.
