By Dorothy Musyoka
In a move towards greater inclusivity and equality, President William Ruto has officially signed the Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2025 into law.
Replacing the outdated Persons with Disabilities Act of 2003, the new law guarantees PWDs the right to accessible education, gainful employment, quality healthcare, and active political participation.
“At State House Nairobi, assented to the Persons with Disabilities Bill, a progressive law that guarantees the rights of PWDs to education, employment, healthcare, political participation, and access to buildings and public spaces,” noted President Ruto.
It also mandates the creation of inclusive physical and digital environments, enabling full and equal participation in all aspects of national life.
A key innovation in the 2025 Bill is the introduction of targeted economic incentives designed to enhance the resilience of PWDs and reduce their social and economic vulnerability.
These measures are expected to stimulate inclusive development by encouraging public and private sector investment in disability inclusion.
During the signing ceremony, President Ruto underscored his administration’s commitment to building an equitable society, announcing the immediate reinstatement of the Disability Mainstreaming Performance Indicator in public service contracts.
“We are committed to upholding the dignity and rights of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in our country. By strengthening our legal frameworks, we are dismantling the systemic obstacles that have long excluded them from vital services and opportunities,” stated President Ruto.
The signing of the Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2025 reaffirms Kenya’s regional leadership in upholding human rights and implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD).