Tessie Mudavadi calls for early registration of children with disabilities

Ushiriki Wema Foundation chair Tessie Musalia tries her hand on an excavator during the groundbreaking ceremony of Mali Integrated School at Mali Therapy Centre in Karen, Nairobi/HANDOUT

The spouse of Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Tessie Mudavadi, has called on parents and guardians of children with disabilities to register them with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD).

Tessie said registration will enable the children access critical support services and opportunities.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony of Mali Integrated School in Karen, Nairobi, Tessie said registration was a crucial step towards ensuring children with disabilities receive the assistance they need to thrive in society.

Tessie, who addressed the gathering in her capacity as Chairperson of the Ushiriki Wema Foundation, emphasised that registration should not be viewed as a label or stigma but rather as a gateway to essential services.

“Registration is about recognition and unlocking access to services, assistive devices, inclusive education support, and social protection programs that help children to thrive,” she said.

She urged parents not to delay seeking assessment and registration for their children, noting that early intervention can significantly improve learning outcomes and overall development.

“I encourage parents not to wait, but to take the step of seeking assessment and registration as early as possible, so that every child receives the support they need to learn, grow, and reach their full potential,” she added.

The event marked the commencement of construction works for Mali Integrated School, an institution that aims to become a model centre of excellence where learners with and without disabilities can study together in an inclusive environment.

Tessie said integrated education plays a critical role in promoting equality and social cohesion by bringing together students of varying abilities, backgrounds and learning needs in the same learning environment.

“This approach is particularly significant for students living with disabilities because it fosters a sense of belonging and community while providing equal access to quality education,” she said.

According to her, inclusive learning environments encourage collaboration, peer interaction and mutual support, ultimately benefiting all learners.

Also speaking during the ceremony, National Council for Persons with Disabilities Regional Coordinator Jane Wamugu said the establishment of the school sends a strong message about the country's commitment to inclusive education.

“Today we are making a clear statement that every child, regardless of ability, background, gender or circumstance, deserves an equal opportunity to learn, grow and achieve their full potential,” she said.

Wamugu noted that Kenya's Constitution guarantees every child's right to education, while the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025 strengthens efforts to promote accessibility, reasonable accommodation and equal participation in all aspects of life.

She described the establishment of Mali Integrated School as an investment not only in infrastructure but also in the realization of constitutional and legislative commitments on disability inclusion.

“The Council stands ready to provide technical guidance on disability inclusion, accessibility standards, assistive devices and technologies, capacity building for teachers and staff, and the implementation of inclusive policies and practices,” she said.