Residents of Garissa County have called on the government to ensure public infrastructure projects meet the needs of persons with disabilities, citing gaps in accessibility at government buildings, schools and other public institutions.
The concerns were raised during a public engagement forum on ongoing national government development projects in the county.
Residents welcomed the investments but questioned whether disability inclusion was adequately considered in their design and implementation.
Stakeholders cited a lack of ramps, accessible toilets, appropriate classroom facilities and specially designed furniture, saying the shortcomings limit the ability of persons with disabilities to access public services independently.
Ahmed Mohamed, a local resident, said some government hostels and public institutions lacked disability-friendly sanitation facilities, making it difficult for persons with disabilities to use them.
He also raised concerns about schools, saying some classrooms lacked ramps and suitable desks for learners with physical disabilities.
“We need to ensure that all government projects have disability-friendly floors, accessible facilities and suitable desks for persons with disabilities,” Mohamed said.
The residents urged authorities to incorporate accessibility standards into the planning, design and implementation of public infrastructure projects rather than address disability inclusion after construction.
They said making public facilities accessible would ensure that government investments benefit all residents and enable persons with disabilities to participate fully in education and access essential services.
