Wamuzi News Ke
President William Ruto has signed into law the revolutionary Persons with Disabilities Bill, 2025, a transformative piece of legislation that could redefine the lives of millions across Kenya. The official signing took place Thursday morning at State House, Nairobi.
With a bold declaration, President Ruto hailed the new law as a “monumental leap” for disability rights, dismantling decades-old barriers and launching a new era of inclusion, protection, and empowerment.
“This isn’t just a law—it’s a wake-up call. It’s the dawn of a new chapter where no Kenyan is left behind!” the President declared, shaking the room with his fierce commitment to equity.
OUT WITH THE OLD: A Legacy Law Gets Buried
The new Act obliterates the outdated Persons with Disabilities Act, Cap. 133, sweeping it aside with a rights-based, action-focused approach that demands nationwide change—from city hall to the furthest county outpost.
KEY FEATURES THAT SHOCKED THE NATION:
- Zero tolerance for discrimination in every aspect of life—education, employment, transport, politics, healthcare, and public spaces.
- Mandatory workplace reforms for inclusivity, with massive tax breaks: 25% salary deductions for employing persons with disabilities, and a whopping 50% deduction for accessibility upgrades.
- Punitive consequences for anyone infringing on the rights of persons with disabilities, from institutions to individuals.
- An independent watchdog—the revamped National Council for Persons with Disabilities—is now armed with investigative power and policy authority.
THE GAME-CHANGER: Counties Put on Notice
Counties are now legally required to:
- Create disability advisory committees
- Reserve at least 5% of all public jobs for persons with disabilities
- Allocate 5% of market stalls to disabled entrepreneurs
Public and Private Sector Warned: Change or Pay
Both sectors must implement accessibility changes or face legal consequences. Adjustment orders will force public and private entities to remodel facilities to be disability-friendly.
TV Stations Already Reacting
Major broadcasters have already begun integrating closed captioning into their news and national events, in anticipation of stricter oversight and public scrutiny.
Education Revolution Incoming
Schools must now create tailored, inclusive learning environments with legal support guarantees. Universal design standards will soon reshape classrooms, transport hubs, and public venues.
Free Rehab & Equal Care
Healthcare institutions will be mandated to provide free medical rehabilitation, equal treatment access, and protections against abuse and exploitation.
Senator Crystal Asige, the visionary force behind this legislation, first introduced the Bill back in February 2023. After more than two years of debate, revisions, and fierce advocacy, the law now stands as one of the most progressive disability rights frameworks in Africa.
President Ruto concluded with a powerful charge:
“This is not the finish line—it’s the starting gun. It’s time for all arms of government, civil society, and every citizen to rise and build an inclusive nation.”
