The ORPP, at KICC Nairobi on 8th October, 2024 unveiled yet again in the month- the Political Education Training Manual for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). A pioneer initiative aimed at empowering individuals with disabilities to actively engage and take up leadership responsibilities including in political parties and elective positions. The Manual is designed to provide PWDs with the knowledge and skills necessary for meaningful participation in the political landscape.
Registrar of Political Parties Ann Nderitu expressed gratitude to the guests and stakeholders who contributed to the Manual, terming it essential in strengthening disability inclusion in electoral and political processes.
She emphasized that PWDs inclusion and participation is Constitutionally protected so as their voices are represented in policymaking and decision-making. The Registar further called for a re-evaluation of the legal framework to address gaps and enahnce equitable inclusion of PWDs in political processes including better ways in their nominations.
The chief guest, Sen. Hon (Dr.) Isaac Mwaura, appreciated the ORPP effort in developing the Manual noting is an authorative reference material for PWDs capacity building and engagements not just for political parties but a cross-section of stakeholders. In his keynote address, punctuated by his life story and testimony as a PWD, he highlighted the significance of the Manual as a collective commitment to ensuring that the voices and concerns of PWDs are heard within the political space. He stressed the importance of inclusion in shaping policies and decisions that reflect the needs of all citizens, including those with disabilities.
Assistant Registrar Mr. Ali Surraw described the launch as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to inclusivity, celebrating the milestones achieved by the ORPP in promoting disability inclusion.
Assistant Director of Capacity Building, Ms. Anastacia Kaberere, provided a brief overview of the Manual, explaining that it is a comprehensive guide designed to equip PWDs in Kenya with the knowledge and skills required to navigate the political system stemming from the earlier ORPP developed Political Education Source Book. The Manual covers various aspects of political processes and offers practical tools to help individuals engage effectively including campaign strategies, resource mobilisation, strategic communication and personal branding of persons’ interest in political leadership.
The launch of the Manual is one of the ORPP’s significant step toward creating a more inclusive and participatory society, a demonstration of its commitment to promoting meaningful involvement of all Special Interest Groups (SIGs) including the marginalised and ethnic minorities.
The launch set off a series of capacity-building initiatives aimed at sensitizing target SIGs on practical ways of implementing the Manual within political parties and in their individual endeavours to participate in elective and political parties leadership.