Know your rights
The Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025 takes a rights-based approach. Here is what it promises children with disabilities and the families who care for them.
A new law for a new era
President William Ruto signed the Persons with Disabilities Act on 8 May 2025. It replaces the 2003 Act, takes a rights-based approach and aligns Kenya’s law with the Constitution and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
A law only helps when families know it exists. That is why our advocacy asks national and county governments to fund and enforce it, and to involve parents and caregivers in planning.
Key milestones
- 2003 · Persons with Disabilities Act, the first national disability law
- 2024 · National Disability Policy guides government programmes
- 8 May 2025 · New Persons with Disabilities Act signed into law
- Today · Families push for funding and enforcement
Six areas every family should know
Education
Free and compulsory basic education for children with disabilities, special education teachers in schools and sign language in learning institutions.
Health
Access to healthcare, rehabilitation and assistive technology without discrimination.
Work and tax
Protection from discrimination at work. People with disabilities may apply for exemption from income tax on employment income.
Accessibility
Accessibility standards for public buildings, services and digital platforms.
Legal capacity
The right to make decisions about your own life, including money, family and privacy.
Enforcement
Mechanisms for accountability. NCPWD’s powers are strengthened to oversee compliance.
When a service is denied
Knowing the law is the first step. These practical steps can help when your child is turned away from a school, clinic or office.
Stay calm and ask why
Ask the officer to explain the decision, and ask for it in writing.
Keep records
Note dates, names and what was said. Keep copies of every document you submit.
Escalate
Ask to speak to the officer in charge, or contact the relevant county or national office.
Get support
Call NCPWD toll-free on 0800 724 333, or contact NCP-CDK so we can advise and follow up.
Nothing about our children with disabilities without us.The principle behind every NCP-CDK meeting, submission and campaign.
Read the official sources
This page is a plain-language summary, not legal advice. Check the official text, or seek legal advice, for your specific situation.
You do not have to do this alone
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