Action for Children in Conflict and (AFCiC) and DKA Austria have called for stronger inclusion of children with disabilities in school sports programmes, urging national and county governments to enhance accessibility and equal participation in co-curricular activities.
The call was made as the two organization signed working partnership aimed at promoting inclusive education and equal opportunities for children with disabilities.
AFCiC Director John Muiruri said the initiative will help ensure children with disabilities are fully included in school sports and other extracurricular activities, noting that many institutions still lack inclusive structures.
He said the programme will roll out outreach activities across schools in Thika Sub-County, engaging teachers and learners to promote inclusive sports and strengthen awareness on disability rights.
“We are committed to ensuring that children with disabilities are fully included in school sports and co-curricular activities, because exclusion denies them equal opportunity to develop their talents.” Muiruri added.
Muiruri further urged the government to fully implement disability policies, saying weak enforcement continues to hinder inclusion in schools.
He also called for increased capitation for learners with disabilities to improve access to facilities, equipment, and trained support personnel.
Representing DKA Austria, Ute Mayrhofer said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring children with disabilities are not left behind in education and sports.
She noted that DKA Austria remains committed to supporting vulnerable groups and emphasized the importance of working with local organisations to ensure effective, community-driven interventions.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to ensuring that children with disabilities are not left behind, especially in education and sports. “she said
DKA Country Representative Mercy Chege praised government efforts in promoting the rights of persons with disabilities but called for stronger coordination to ensure policies translate into real impact at school level.
She noted that implementation gaps remain, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
On her part, Education Assessment and Resource Centre (EARC) Officer Jane Kariuki said the government is strengthening inclusive education through assessment and placement services.
She added that while schools are improving accessibility, more effort is needed to fully integrate children with disabilities into sports and co-curricular activities.
