Persons with disabilities in Kenya have long faced systemic barriers to inclusion, rooted in cultural stigmas, fragmented service structures, and limited socioeconomic opportunities. With a future- focused approach, driven by the reframing impact of behavioral science and the disinflationary effects of digital technology, this report aims to spotlight disability inclusion by offering actionable insights to accelerate progress, not only within the framework of Kenya’s Vision 2030, but in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2030. By reframing disability as a societal and economic priority, we underscore the critical role that persons with disabilities play as contributors to national prosperity and social resilience. 

Key findings of the study reveal both the challenges and the untapped potential within Kenya’s disability community. For instance, while targeted social protection programs have reduced the poverty rate among persons with disabilities from 45.7% in 2019 to 38% in 2023, these figures remain significantly above the national average.Additionally, the report finds that the total economic loss from the exclusion of persons with disabilities amounts to up to 6.95 percent of GDP (KES. 1 trillion) due to a combination of factors including lower productivity, higher unemployment and higher labor market inactivity. Addressing these barriers can create immense economic value. 

The recommendations of the report are insightful and they open up new grounds for understanding the complexities around disability inclusion in Kenya. We urge all stakeholders to leverage the insights herein to address the critical gaps in policy, program implementation, innovations and resource allocation that persist. Together, we can reframe disability from a lens of dependency to one of empowerment, paving the way for a future where no one is left behind.