Women with disabilities in Kenya have faced immense challenges—social stigma, economic marginalization, and a lack of access to opportunities. But today, thanks to a transformative project by PSR (Physicians for Social Responsibility), a wave of change is sweeping across their lives. These women are no longer defined by their disabilities; instead, they stand tall, knowing their rights, reclaiming their voices, and boldly stepping into a future of endless possibilities.

In February 2025, volunteers Georgiana Forsang and Ella Yli-Heikkilä visited Kenya to meet with Women Challenged to Challenge (WCC), PSR’s partner organization since 2021. Alongside WCC’s project coordinator Grace Athe, they toured project sites in Nairobi, Baringo, and Siaya, engaging with both rights holders and duty bearers. The initiative, Promoting Sexual and Reproductive Health of Women and Girls with Disabilities in Kenyan Health Services (2021–2024), funded by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, achieved remarkable outcomes.

Breaking Barriers and Gaining Confidence

Before becoming participants of the PSR project, many of these women and girls lived in the shadows, unheard and unseen. Society often dictated their limitations, reinforcing narratives that held them back. However, through a series of workshops these women found the courage to rewrite their stories.

”I used to believe that my disability was a curse, that I was a burden to my family,” says Quinter, one of the participants. ”But after the training, I realized I have the same rights as anyone else. Now, I speak up, I make decisions, I am a consultant, and I am in control of my life.”

Through mentorship and peer support, these women are learning to embrace their uniqueness and advocate for their rights in workplaces, homes, and communities.

One of the key areas PSR focused on was ensuring the sexual and reproductive health of the participants. Many women and girls with disabilities in Nairobi, Baringo and Siaya struggle to find jobs due to discrimination or inaccessibility. The project introduced them to sexual reproductive health tips, and they had sign language interpreter training. Today, many persons with disabilities can now be heard at police stations due to the availability of sign language interpreters.  Motor-bike drivers can now carry persons with disabilities on  their  bikes  because of  increased  awareness  about  rights  of  persons  with  disabilities.  

Ida, another beneficiary, is a new mom in Siaya. ”For the first time, I used the  disability-friendly maternity  beds  provided  by PSR through the  works  of WCC (Women Challenged  to Challenge) during  my  delivery  and  I  felt  comfortable. I have dignity, and I am proud of who I have become”, she says.

Knowing Their Rights and Demanding Change

Empowerment is not just about financial success—it’s also about awareness and advocacy. Many women with disabilities were previously unaware of their rights regarding healthcare, employment, and protection from gender-based violence. PSR conducted extensive legal education programs to ensure that these women could stand up against discrimination, seek justice, and demand inclusion.

Now, some of the beneficiaries have become community advocates and mobilizers, ensuring that no woman with a disability suffers in silence.

”I used to suffer in silence because I didn’t know the law was on my side. Now, I educate others about their rights and fight for justice. I will not allow any woman with a disability to be treated as lesser!” says Grace, now an active human rights advocate and a project coordinator for WCC.

The greatest impact of the PSR project is the mindset shift it has created. These women are no longer victims; they are leaders, and change-makers. They are raising their voices in boardrooms, launching initiatives to support others, and dreaming bigger than ever before.

Through courage, resilience, and the right support system, these women have proven that disability is not inability. They are bold, they are aware, and they are building better versions of themselves—unstoppable and ready to inspire the next generation of women and girls with disabilities.

A Call to Action

The journey doesn’t end here. While PSR has played a critical role in empowering these women, more needs to be done. PSR is continuing the partnership with Women Challenged to Challenge with the project ‘Advancing and promoting sexual and reproductive health rights of women and girls with disabilities in Kenyan health services’ 2025-2028 with funding from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from Finland. Society must continue to embrace inclusivity, equal opportunities, and accessibility for all. Organizations, policymakers, and individuals must step up to support, employ, and stand alongside women and  girls with disabilities.

These women have proven that with the right opportunities, they can thrive, inspire, and lead. The question is—will we continue to support them on this journey?

Text: Georgiana Forsang
Volunteer coordinator for PSR’s Kenya project

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