More Support Needed for Children Living with Disabilities, Partners Say
NAIROBI, June 5, 2026 — Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation and Sanlam Allianz Holdings (Kenya) PLC have renewed calls for stronger support systems for children living with disabilities, warning that many continue to face limited access to education, therapy and social development opportunities despite growing awareness of inclusion.
The appeal was made during the second annual Inclusive Sports and Wellness Event hosted by the two partners in Nairobi, where children with disabilities, caregivers, therapists, mentors and community stakeholders gathered for activities focused on well-being and inclusion.
Held under the theme “Celebrating Abilities, Together We Shine,” the event featured inclusive games, therapeutic sessions and caregiver forums designed to strengthen social and developmental support for children with special needs.
According to the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE), more than one in ten children in Kenya aged between three and 21 years representing 11.4 percent lives with a disability or special need, highlighting the scale of the challenge facing families and support institutions.
Key Numbers
• 11.4% of children aged 3–21 in Kenya live with a disability or special need
• Programme aims to provide social skills training to 300 children by June 2027
• Fifty children targeted for tailored occupational therapy support
• Initiative launched jointly in 2024
Dr. Robert Nyarango, Chief Executive Officer of Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital and Trustee of Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation, said the initiative seeks to build social and functional skills that can improve independence and create pathways to economic opportunities in the future.
“Our overall goal is to improve quality of life and ensure children with disabilities have opportunities to thrive and eventually participate in sustainable economic activities,” he said.
Dr. Carol Waweru, Head of Impact Programs at Gertrude’s Hospital Foundation, said sports and arts play an important role in building confidence and social skills, adding that involving caregivers ensures progress made by children extends into home environments.
Sanlam Allianz officials said the partnership reflects a long-term commitment to creating inclusive communities and expanding opportunities for children with disabilities and their families across Kenya.
