Let's create a society that is accessible for all

Lydia Chege is on a mission. Her voice stood out among the 7,000 primary school head teachers who attended this week’s Annual Conference. She spoke a day after the Cabinet approved the new Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2018. The issue of disability remains out of sight of most Kenyans. This lack of interest and stigma opens the door for neglect and abuse.

Eight years ago, my family came face to face with the challenges of disability when an adult family member lost his eyesight in two separate savage criminal attacks. The Kenya School of the Blind staff and a community of people living with visual disabilities became our lifeline. An abrupt introduction to special needs, assistive devices and the power of empathy followed. He adapted quickly and is a powerful force in his family and community.