People with disabilities in Kwale are preparing a bill to address the challenges affecting them and improve their welfare.
The Kwale County Disability Bill which is expected to be introduced in the county assembly next year is still in the public participation stage.
The Outstanding Abilities Kenya CEO Badi Mwalimu said the bill will require the county set aside a certain amount of money to support the PWDs in various aspects of life.
He said it will focus on empowering persons with disabilities socioeconomically and support their development through projects and other income-generating initiatives.
Mwalimu said it will also help PWDs have access to better education, equal employment opportunities and strengthen the rights to protect their welfare.
"The bill seeks to provide a platform where disabled people benefit without alienation and stigma and contribute to the development goals," he said.
Mwalimu said the initiative is part of the efforts to uplift the PWDs from lives of despair to prosperity by improving their living standards and dignity.
He said at the moment most people with disabilities are living in deplorable conditions and have been sidelined in various aspects of development.
Mwalimu said many PWDs are illiterate because of little focus by respective authorities and the community in empowering them.
He said disabled people are treated as stubborn and their affairs are less prioritised, contributing to their miserable lives.
Mwalimu said the bill will also improve PWDs' resilience and assist them to effectively fight poverty.
He said when the PWDs are empowered they will support the county to grow economically.
Mwalimu said many disabled people are talented but lack the means to nurture their talents because of myths and misconceptions.
He said the bill will promote awareness programmes and campaigns against the mistreatment of PWDs.
Mwalimu said it is heartbreaking seeing some parents hiding their children who have disabilities and educating the rest of their sons and daughters.
He said the bill intends to put an end to such inequalities and bring everyone on board.
"The bill will create structures to curb the alienation and sufferings of the PWDs," he said.
Mwalimu said persons with disabilities will also get an opportunity for capacity building and training to stand for their rights.
