The County Government of Uasin Gishu has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the rights, dignity and equal opportunities of Deaf people through improved access to public services, communication and social and economic programmes.

The commitment was highlighted during the 2026 International Deaf Awareness Week grand celebration held at Home Craft under the theme, “Declaring Deaf People’s Human Rights.”

The event brought together county and national government representatives, elected leaders, disability advocates and stakeholders to raise awareness on the rights of Deaf people and promote their meaningful participation in society.

Speaking during the celebration, Chief Guest Hon. Dr. Isaac Mwaura, CBS, Head of the Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Disability Rights in the Executive Office of the President, called for sustained efforts to uphold the rights of Deaf people and ensure they can fully participate in society.

Dr. Mwaura emphasized the need for institutions to address challenges that hinder persons with disabilities from accessing essential services and opportunities.

County Executive Committee Member for Education, Vocational Training, Gender, Social Protection and Culture, Eng. Lucy Ng’endo, reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to strengthening programmes that support persons with disabilities and expand their access to education, social protection and economic opportunities.

Chief Officer for Gender and Social Protection, Marion Birgen, stressed the importance of addressing communication and accessibility challenges that affect Deaf people when seeking public services.

She called for stronger mechanisms to ensure government services are responsive to the specific needs of persons with disabilities.

Hon. Regina Chumba, MCA representing persons with disabilities, called for greater participation of PWDs in decision-making processes, noting that their voices should inform programmes and policies that affect their lives.

The event also provided a platform for stakeholders to advocate for accessible communication, equal opportunities and stronger support systems for Deaf people.

The celebration was attended by Eunice Melii, Director of Social Protection; MCAs representing persons with disabilities; and Hellen Tuwei, representing the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), among other stakeholders.

Stakeholders called for continued collaboration between government, disability organizations and other partners to advance the rights of Deaf people and strengthen access to services and opportunities. Later, the delegation visited Eldoret Rescue Centre, where they commended the County Government of Uasin Gishu for its efforts in addressing the plight of street-connected children.

The delegation also applauded the Rescue Centre for providing adequate food, clothing and other essential resources to children, supported by the County Government under the leadership of Governor Jonathan Bii Chelilim.