PWDs Demand Cabinet Slot, Decry SHA Health Scheme Failures
Matters Disability Updated: 04 December 2025 14:13 EAT
As Kenya joined the world in marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) intensified calls for greater inclusion in top government ranks and expressed dissatisfaction with the new Social Health Authority (SHA) health insurance scheme.
Led by Justus Katumo, the PWD representative for Makueni County, advocates made a strong push for political representation by urging the national government to appoint at least one Cabinet Secretary with a disability.
The advocates argue that despite many PWDs being highly qualified, they have been historically sidelined and confined to low-level government jobs.
They maintain that the appointment of a Cabinet Secretary would fulfill a long-standing constitutional requirement for inclusivity and ensure that their unique issues are effectively addressed at the highest decision-making table.
The group also raised serious concerns about the transition to the new Social Health Authority (SHA) health insurance scheme.
They claim the new scheme has failed to adequately meet their unique healthcare needs. They noted worrying reports that some public hospitals are allegedly still charging them for essential services, contrary to the spirit of universal and equitable healthcare access.
SOURCE: CITIZEN TV
Tags: Matters Disability #Pwds PWDs ACT NCPWD
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Selestine Nyongesa
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