The Association for the Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK) has launched a transformative three-year project dubbed Jumuisha, aimed at registering over 25,000 persons with disabilities (PWDs) in rural areas across four counties: Kakamega, Nakuru, Kilifi, and Isiolo.
This pilot initiative, conducted in partnership with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) and Christian Blind Mission (CBM), seeks to simplify and fast-track the disability registration process through village-level outreach. Utilizing a “one-stop shop” model, individuals can now undergo assessment, registration, and receive their disability certificates within hours significantly reducing the bureaucratic delays that previously hindered access.
Traditionally, PWDs were required to navigate multiple processes, including visiting health facilities for medical assessments and waiting up to two weeks for reports before commencing e-citizen registration. With the Jumuisha model, the process is completed in a single day under one roof, bringing critical services closer to rural communities.
During a recent outreach held at Mumbetsa County Polytechnic in Kakamega, APDK Programme Officer Elvis Kale emphasized the importance of disability certification in accessing government and empowerment programs. “We’ve seen many PWDs struggle for years to obtain certificates. This initiative is bridging that gap by ensuring they leave with certificates the same day,” he stated.
A similar outreach in March at Likuyani saw 300 individuals registered in one day. Kale attributed low registration rates in rural areas to stigma and lack of awareness, which the outreach program also seeks to address through community sensitization.
Victor Otieno of CBM highlighted the need for accurate data to provide targeted interventions, such as assistive devices. He called on more partners, including county governments, to support mobilization efforts.
Kakamega NCPWD Coordinator Priscah Akoth urged PWDs with old disability cards to transition to the streamlined e-citizen registration platform, which can now be accessed via smartphone.
Faith Owuor, the county’s Rehab Coordinator, echoed the call for more support to scale up outreach efforts. “We aim to reach every corner of Kakamega and beyond,” she affirmed.
The Jumuisha project is a significant step toward inclusivity, dignity, and equitable access to services for persons with disabilities in Kenya.
