The Mathare Social Justice Centre has a new report out on the experiences of people with disabilities in Nairobi’s poor neighborhoods. The summary findings from a survey of 82 disabled people are stark:
- 90% of respondents who require sign language and braille training did not have access to it
- Despite many respondents living with physical disabilities, 0% had access to a disabled toilet
- 78% required some form of supportive equipment – of these:
- 96% did not have all the equipment they require
- 59% need mobility equipment (e.g. wheelchair) which they do not have
- For those of working age, 53% were unemployed and 13% relied on begging for an income
- 54% were aware of the PWD card, yet only 40% had one. Of those who had a card, very few received any benefit from it
The full report offers a rich portrayal of individual stories, interviews with government officials, building audits, and a review of the legal environment for supporting disabled people. It closes with a moving reflection:

disappointing but sadly not surprising.
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