Migori PWDs Demand Swift Implementation of New Disabilities Act

Matters Disability Updated: 05 December 2025 12:53 EAT

Former Migori County Woman Representative, Ms. Denita Ghati/photo courtesy

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Migori have issued a unified call for the full operationalization and enforcement of the Persons with Disabilities Act 2025 to ensure their rights are promoted and safeguarded.

The demand was made during the celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), held at Migori Primary School in Suna West Sub-County, under the theme: “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress.”

Speakers at the event decried the perceived delay by both the national and county governments in implementing the new legislation, which is specifically designed to address long-standing challenges facing the PWD community.

Former Migori County Woman Representative, Ms. Denita Ghati, who was the chief guest, urged relevant authorities to ensure the Act is fully followed and respected so that PWDs can immediately begin benefitting from its provisions.

The Persons with Disabilities Act 2025 was signed into law by President William Ruto in May 2025. It was hailed as a historic milestone, aiming to advance mental health rights and services while taking a transformative step towards upholding the dignity and well-being of persons with disabilities.

The Act is intended to directly respond to PWD challenges and align Kenya’s legal framework with the Constitution and international human rights standards.

Ms. Ghati, who previously served as a nominated Member of Parliament representing PWDs in the 12th Parliament, noted that despite the new law, the country continues to lag in safeguarding disability rights.

She pledged to continue championing reforms that promote inclusion, recognition, and effective service delivery for the PWD community.

The new Persons with Disabilities Act 2025 also provides a comprehensive legal framework for the promotion, protection, and advancement of disability rights, aligning with Kenya’s constitutional commitments under Articles 2(6), 27, 54 and 260 of the Constitution of Kenya (COK) and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). She affirmed that disability rights are a fundamental component of human dignity aimed at fostering an inclusive society that recognises and respects disability as integral to human development.

Moses Jakait, a health stakeholder in the county, underscored the importance of early medical interventions and accessible healthcare for disability-related conditions.

The event also renewed calls for robust data systems, transparent public participation, and policies that ensure equal opportunities for all persons with disabilities.

SOURCE MIGORI KNA