County Government of Kakamega Strengthens Partnership to Advance Inclusion and Economic Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities .
The County Government of Kakamega has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the inclusion and economic empowerment of persons with disabilities through strategic partnerships. In this regard, the Chief Officer for Sports, Youths and Library Services, Mr. Lawrence Mukoyani, today chaired a consultative meeting with representatives from the Christian Blind Mission (CBM) and the Association for the Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK) to review the implementation of the Jumuisha Project in Kakamega County. The initiative seeks to equip persons with disabilities with social and employability skills, strengthen their participation in economic activities, and enhance access to internship opportunities, in line with H.E. Dr. Fernandes Barasa’s social development agenda, which champions inclusivity, equal opportunities, and the empowerment of vulnerable members of society.
During the meeting, stakeholders reviewed the progress made under the programme, highlighting the successful placement of 30 young persons with disabilities in internship opportunities across Kakamega County. Of these, four are attached to various departments within the County Government of Kakamega, while 21 have been placed in private sector institutions, where they receive monthly stipends, medical cover, and valuable workplace experience. Efforts are ongoing to secure internship placements for the remaining beneficiaries.
Mr. Mukoyani commended CBM and APDK for their unwavering partnership in advancing disability inclusion and creating pathways for young persons with disabilities to achieve economic independence. He noted that internship programmes play a critical role in equipping beneficiaries with practical skills, professional exposure, and the confidence required to transition successfully into the labour market.
The Chief Officer reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to deepening collaboration with development partners, the private sector, and other stakeholders to expand internship and economic empowerment opportunities for persons with disabilities. He emphasized that such partnerships are instrumental in building an inclusive society where every resident has an equal opportunity to contribute to and benefit from Kakamega County’s socio-economic development. The meeting was also attended by the Director of Sports, Mr. Antony Ntiba, alongside other county and partner organization officials.