Members of Parliament (MPs) have called for the individualised support of persons living with disabilities (PWDs).
This new system would mean that instead of the PWDs receiving their stipends per household basis, they would get paid per individual.
The MPs, drawn from the National Assembly Social Protection Committee, advocated for this change during a meeting with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities.
The meeting sought to address critical areas requiring policy and funding adjustments.
During the meeting, the lawmakers identified flaws in the current funding model as some families had more members living with disabilities than others.
This would mean that, although the amount of money provided would be similar, such families would be severely disadvantaged.
Led by the committee Vice Chair and Kipkelion West MP Hilary Kosgei, they went on to emphasise the urgent need to revise the model and ensure funding is awarded on an individual basis.
Members of the PWD Council also reiterated their commitment to advancing the well-being and productivity of PWDs across the nation as well as streamlining operations in the council.
They were led by outgoing Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Harun Hassan, and Acting CEO Eva Njoroge.
Just a week ago, the National Assembly approved the Persons with Disabilities Bill (Senate Bill No. 7 of 2023) which sought to enhance the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities in Kenya.
Sponsored by nominated Senator Crystal Asige, the bill achieved among others, massive tax relief for not only PWDs but also caregivers of children with disabilities.
"The Cabinet Secretary responsible for matters related to finance may, on application by a parent or guardian of a person certified with severe disability and incapable of catering for their basic needs, grant an income tax exemption of Sh150,000 to the parent or guardian," part of the bill read.
