For Isaiah Onyango, a Budget Facilitator from Kiambu County, the fight for accessible healthcare for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) was a deeply personal mission. His journey began at Uthiru Dispensary, where he was confronted with the harsh realities faced by PWDs. The roads leading to the facility were treacherous for those with mobility challenges, and the lack of ramps, accessible restrooms, and a Disability Help Desk left many patients feeling isolated and unsupported. The communication barriers were equally disheartening, with no sign language interpreter to bridge the gap between deaf patients and healthcare providers. “Every time I saw patients struggle to communicate or access care, it fueled my determination to make a change,” Isaiah recalls.

Isaiah’s advocacy took a pivotal turn when he formed the Kiambu Budget Cell, a community platform dedicated to disability mainstreaming and improving healthcare services. Armed with skills from NEC Hub’s training in budget analysis and policy engagement, Isaiah and his team meticulously identified the critical gaps in Uthiru Dispensary’s infrastructure and services. “It was clear that PWDs were not just underserved—they were completely overlooked,” he says.

The Budget Cell’s advocacy gained momentum during an inspection of the new Uthiru Level 3 facility under construction. Isaiah and his colleagues boldly pushed for the inclusion of key accessibility features. Although their request for a lift was denied due to budgetary constraints, their persistence ensured the inclusion of ramps—a significant step forward. The county government also committed to establishing a dedicated Disability Help Desk at the facility, a move that Isaiah views as a game-changer. “This desk will be a lifeline for PWDs, offering them the support they’ve always deserved,” he notes.

Another milestone was achieved when Isaiah advocated for training Community Health Promoters (CHPs) and healthcare providers in sign language interpretation. “Breaking the communication barrier was non-negotiable,” he asserts. The new facility, once operational, will include widened doorways, accessible restrooms, and disability sensitivity training for staff, creating a more welcoming environment for all patients.