In a significant stride towards inclusivity, the Association of Women in Agriculture Kenya (AWAK) marked the International Day for Persons With Disabilities (IDPWD) by unveiling a groundbreaking initiative. AWAK has taken deliberate steps to ensure the active participation of the PWD community in all its activities.

As part of our ongoing Rural Resilience Program (RRP), generously funded by the Croda Foundation, AWAK has designated four cohorts exclusively for PWD participants. This pioneering move aims to create an environment that fosters learning, growth, and empowerment for individuals with disabilities. The special classes, accommodating 120 participants each, are scheduled to commence in January and February 2024 in Mombasa, with plans to extend the program to other counties.

Last Friday, the Mombasa office of AWAK was abuzz with enthusiasm as they played host to an exceptional team led by the Former Miss Tourism Mombasa and Miss Deaf Africa, Ms. Babelyn Mukila. Ms. Mukila, a passionate advocate for the rights of the deaf community and other Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Mombasa and Kenya at large, shared her insights and experiences.

AWAK is poised to collaborate with Mombasa Ministry of in empowering the PWD community, focusing on critical areas such as food security and nutrition, clean energy adoption, and women’s economic empowerment. Ms. Mukila’s self-driven championing of PWD rights aligns seamlessly with AWAK’s mission to be the catalyst for positive change in society.

As AWAK takes this bold step towards inclusivity, the organization emphasizes its commitment to reaching underrepresented groups in society. The initiative reflects a deeper intention to be the change the world needs, demonstrating that progress is not just a goal but a journey, and inclusivity is a crucial step on this path.

In a symbolic gesture, the AWAK team was captured learning some signs in sign language, symbolizing their dedication to breaking communication barriers and fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

AWAK’s commitment to inclusivity not only aligns with the spirit of IDPWD but also sets a commendable precedent for other organizations, emphasizing that true progress is achieved when everyone is given equal opportunities to contribute and succeed.