The National Council for Persons with Disabilities has raised alarm over the continued neglect and discrimination of children living with disabilities, urging parents to step up and prioritize their right to education and inclusion.
Despite years of awareness campaigns and community sensitization forums, reports reveal that some families still hide children with disabilities, locking them away from the outside world and denying them opportunities to learn, grow, and be part of society.
During a mass registration exercise for persons with disabilities organized by the Muslims Women Advancement of Rights and Protection (MWARP) at Vitsangalaweni in Lunga-Lunga sub-county, County NCPWD officer Emily Mwembe expressed dismay at the lingering stigma and ignorance.
“It is heartbreaking that in this day and age, we still have children with disabilities being hidden in homes, missing out on education, healthcare, and even the love they deserve,” she said.
Mwembe said that every child regardless of ability deserves an equal shot at life, adding that disability is not inability and with the right educational environment and proper support, the children can rise above barriers and shine.
ALSO READ:
Mombasa couple arrested for exploiting own children in online sex ring
Mwembe urged parents to enroll their children with disabilities in schools or specialized institutions, warning that locking them indoors robs them of a future and violates their basic human rights.
She further explained that taking children with disabilities for medical assessments and registering them with the NCPWD is the first step to unlocking support services especially in education.
“Once registered, these children become eligible for government and NGO educational programs, assistive devices, therapy, and other forms of support that can help them learn and thrive,” she said.
Mwembe warned that any individual found hiding or neglecting children with disabilities will face legal consequences.
“Hiding a child with a disability is not only denying them their rights, it’s a crime. The law will catch up with anyone doing this,” she said.
Echoing her sentiments, MWARP officer Amina Mnyeto said that denying children with disabilities the right to education and health is a violation of the Constitution and the Children’s Act.
“Let it be clear: all children, including those with disabilities, have a constitutional right to education. Parents who fail to honor this duty are committing a punishable offense,” said Mnyeto.
ALSO READ:
She urged communities to break the silence and shame that often surrounds disability and instead champion inclusive education.
Mnyeto appealed to religious leaders, teachers, local authorities, and civil society organizations to help create safe, inclusive learning environments for children with disabilities and to raise awareness about their rights.
She also urged parents and guardians to take the lead in changing the narrative.
“Let us love them, teach them, and give them the tools to succeed. When we educate children with disabilities, we uplift entire families and empower communities,” she said.
Mnyeto further urged families to register their children early to ensure they benefit from timely educational interventions, including school fees support, learning aids, and access to inclusive classrooms.
BY OMAR SHABAN
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
