,mAlex Maina
For a long time, people living with disabilities especially the deaf and non-speaking have struggled to get help in government offices. Many times, they would enter a county office, try to explain their problems, but no one would understand them. They would leave feeling unseen and unheard.
But things are now changing in Uasin Gishu County.
The County Government has made a big step forward by providing Sign Language Interpreters in their service offices. This means that deaf and non-speaking citizens can now walk into a government office and confidently ask for the help they need just like anyone else.
Paul, a young deaf man from Kapsaret, shares his experience. “Before, I would wait for hours with no help. People looked at me like I was a problem. But now, I walk in, and Liz is there. She helps explain everything. I finally feel respected.”
Liz is a Sign Language Interpreter working with the County Government. Her job is to make sure no one is left out. “I love helping. Everyone deserves to be heard,” she says with a smile.
One of the people Liz helps is Mary, a single mother who cannot speak. For years, she avoided County offices because she didn’t know how to ask for help. But today, she says, “Liz helps me speak. Through her, I can ask questions and get answers. I no longer feel small or lost.”
This move by the County is not just a kind act it is also a duty written in our Constitution. Article 54(1)(a) of the Kenyan Constitution clearly says that people with disabilities have the right to be treated with dignity and to access all public services. County Governments are required to serve all citizens whether abled or disabled without discrimination.
Thanks to the County Government of Uasin Gishu for hiring people like Liz people who make the silent voices to be heard, understood, and respected.
Inclusion is not a favor it is a right. And in Uasin Gishu, that right is finally being honored.
