On March 7, 2025, Uhuru Park became a vibrant forum for advocating inclusive economic empowerment for young Kenyans with disabilities. Youth Alive! Kenya, in collaboration with the United Disabled Persons of Kenya, Youth Agenda, and UN Women, co-hosted a pivotal panel discussion during the annual People’s Dialogue Festival. This flagship event, known for fostering inclusive dialogue and collaborative problem-solving among diverse stakeholders, provided a vital platform for addressing pressing societal challenges and co-creating sustainable solutions for Kenya’s development.

The panel discussion underscored the urgent need for inclusive policies and robust support mechanisms to ensure that young people with disabilities gain access to meaningful employment opportunities. Speakers passionately articulated that true economic empowerment extends beyond mere job creation; it necessitates the dismantling of systemic barriers that prevent marginalized groups from fully participating in the workforce.

Beyond the realm of formal employment, the discussion also illuminated the often-overlooked yet critical contributions of caregivers to persons with disabilities (PWDs). Their unpaid care and domestic work (UCDW) are instrumental in ensuring that PWDs live with dignity and have access to essential support. Participants issued a powerful call for the recognition, reduction, and redistribution of UCDW, urging both government and society to establish supportive structures that alleviate the significant responsibilities borne by these caregivers.

The event at Uhuru Park served as a testament to the power of multi-stakeholder collaboration in championing the rights and opportunities of young Kenyans with disabilities, pushing for a more equitable and inclusive economic landscape.