By Adan Mohamed - Reporter
May 16, 2026 - Persons living with disabilities (PWDs) in Mandera County are calling for greater inclusion, equal representation, and recognition in leadership and development opportunities across the county.
The group urged both the national and county governments to ensure fair representation of persons with disabilities in public appointments, government offices, and leadership positions, including representation in Parliament.
Speaking during a meeting of disability stakeholders, leaders of the PWD community said persons living with disabilities continue to face marginalization despite constitutional provisions promoting equality and inclusivity.
“We want equal opportunities and representation in leadership and decision-making positions. Persons with disabilities should not be left behind in matters of governance and development,” one of the leaders said.
The group also appealed to the government to allocate more resources towards programs benefiting persons with disabilities in all sub-counties.
Among the issues raised were the need for increased access to assistive devices, educational support, healthcare services, and economic empowerment programmes.
Billow Abdullahi, the Secretary for PWDs in Mandera County, urged the county government to prioritize the employment of more persons living with disabilities across various county departments and offices.
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“We are appealing to the county government to create more employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and ensure they are included in public service recruitment,” he said.
He further noted that many persons living with disabilities in remote areas still lack basic support services and called for equitable distribution of resources to all sub-counties.
The leaders emphasized that inclusion and equal representation are key to empowering persons with disabilities and improving their participation in social, economic, and political affairs.
They also urged society to embrace inclusivity and eliminate discrimination against persons living with disabilities.