President William Ruto has officially signed the Persons with Disabilities Bill into law, marking a major milestone in Kenya’s efforts to enhance inclusivity and protect the rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs). The signing ceremony, held at State House on Thursday, underscored the government’s commitment to transforming policy into meaningful action for Kenya’s disability community.
“This law is both comprehensive in scope and progressive in vision,” President Ruto stated. “It affirms the rights of persons with disabilities to education, employment, healthcare, political participation, and access to buildings and built environments.”
The new law repeals the outdated Persons with Disabilities Act No. 14 of 2003 and introduces modern provisions to reflect global best practices. Key highlights include the restructuring of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, devolution of disability-related functions, and the introduction of exemptions and incentives aimed at improving the economic resilience of PWDs.
To ensure accountability and effective implementation, the law strengthens enforcement mechanisms and mandates affirmative action across key sectors. It also enhances representation of PWDs in both national and county governance, reinforcing their inclusion in policy-making processes.
In alignment with the Constitution’s Article 54, the new law aims to dismantle systemic barriers that have long hindered PWDs from accessing essential services. According to the 2019 National Housing and Population Census, around one million Kenyans—about 2% of the population—are living with disabilities, while globally, PWDs represent approximately 15% of the population.
As part of the implementation strategy, President Ruto directed the Public Service Performance Management Unit to reinstate the Disability Mainstreaming Performance Indicator in performance contracts. This move seeks to embed disability inclusion within the core operations of the public service.
Additionally, President Ruto signed the County Governments Additional Allocation Bill, 2025, which allocates more funding to counties to enhance equitable service delivery and deepen devolution.
With these legislative milestones, the government is taking significant steps toward a more inclusive society, ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
