CBM Global, in partnership with the Kenya Red Cross Society and the Association for the Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK), is working with local Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (ODPs) to address the exclusion of persons with disabilities from humanitarian aid in several Kenyan counties. The aim was to increase the involvement of ODPs in emergency response and resilience programming, leading to a more accessible and inclusive approach for persons with disabilities. The partnership began in 2011 and continues into 2025.
The collaboration tackled several challenges related to disability inclusion, such as oversimplified identification processes, the lack of national identification and disability cards, and inadequate rehabilitation services. To address these challenges, mapping exercises were conducted, inclusion advisers were appointed, data collection tools were redesigned, OPDs were trained and incorporated in direct project implementation, and direct outreach was launched. These measures were aimed at improving identification and assistance for persons with disabilities. The collaboration resulted in significant policy changes within the Kenya Red Cross Society to ensure inclusivity for persons with disabilities and policy changes at the governmental level.
The partnership created new and more inclusive methods for collecting data and delivering services, which improved access to services for persons with disabilities. Additionally, it allowed persons with disabilities to participate actively in community and decision-making processes, demonstrating inclusive humanitarian practices.