President William Ruto has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting inclusion and expanding opportunities for persons with disabilities, pledging continued investment in education, assistive technologies and programmes aimed at removing barriers to participation in society.
Speaking through Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba during the International Albinism Awareness Day celebrations in Thika, the President called on Kenyans to embrace diversity and reject all forms of discrimination.
Referring to this year’s theme, “Proudly in My Skin: Celebrating All Skin Tones,” Ruto said the message underscores the need to uphold human dignity and celebrate the unique value of every individual regardless of appearance or disability.
“The theme challenges society to move beyond stereotypes and prejudices and instead celebrate the unique qualities that make every individual valuable,” the President said in a speech read on his behalf.
He emphasised that building a united nation requires respect for the rights of all citizens and reiterated that disability should never be a barrier to opportunity.
“Human dignity is neither determined by appearance, nor is human worth defined by disability,” he said.
The President pledged continued support for policies and programmes that promote equal opportunities for persons with disabilities, saying the government remains committed to removing obstacles that limit access to education, employment and leadership.
He also promised increased investment in infrastructure, assistive technologies and teacher training to ensure learners with disabilities receive the support they need to achieve their full potential.
Ruto’s remarks came as the government highlighted several initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of persons with disabilities, including support programmes targeting persons with albinism.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said Kenya’s National Albinism Sunscreen and Support Programme has become a global benchmark for disability inclusion. Established in 2013 under the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), the programme provides sunscreen, healthcare and other protective interventions to persons with albinism.
According to Mwaura, the government has consistently allocated approximately Sh100 million annually to sustain the programme, helping improve access to essential services and reducing health risks associated with prolonged exposure to sunlight.
He also lauded initiatives by the Albinism Society of Kenya, including Imarisha Masomo, Ajira and Linda Afya, which have enabled hundreds of persons with albinism to access education, healthcare and employment opportunities.
“The success stories emerging from these initiatives continue to inspire younger generations and demonstrate the value of investing in inclusion,” Mwaura said.
National Council for Persons with Disabilities Assistant Director in charge of the Albinism Programme Alex Munyere welcomed the government’s continued support, revealing that an additional Sh10 million was reinstated last year to strengthen interventions for persons with albinism.
He said the funding has expanded access to critical services and enhanced support for beneficiaries across the country.
Munyere also commended efforts to increase employment opportunities for persons with disabilities, noting that such initiatives are helping improve livelihoods and foster greater inclusion.
Albinism Society of Kenya Programmes Officer Daniel Omeno called on all sectors of society to play a role in promoting equality and inclusion.
He urged stakeholders to expand access to education, healthcare, sun protection and employment opportunities while challenging harmful stereotypes that continue to affect persons with albinism.
“Creating an enabling environment allows individuals with albinism to fully realise their potential,” Omeno said.
During the event, President Ruto also declared the Thika School for the Visually Impaired a Centre of Excellence for Special Needs Education, describing the institution as a symbol of the progress Kenya has made in advancing inclusive education for learners with disabilities.
