INFLUENCE OF STRATEGIES ON EMPOWERMENT OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN KIRIMARI WARD IN EMBU COUNTY, KENYA
Faith Murugi Njue - Master of Arts in Project Planning and Management, University of Nairobi, Kenya
Dr. Kirema Nkanata Mburugu - University of Nairobi, Kenya
ABSTRACT
The purpose of the study was establishing the influence of the strategies on empowerment of persons with disabilities in Embu County. The study was guided by the following objectives; To establish the influence of inclusive education on empowerment of Persons with disabilities in Embu County; to determine the influence of access to equitable employment on empowerment Persons with disabilities in Embu County; to establish the influence of social protection strategies on empowerment of Persons with disabilities in Embu County and; to establish the extent to which family support promotes the empowerment of Persons with disabilities in Embu County. This study employed Cross-sectional descriptive survey research design. The target population of this study comprised 75 participants. Since the target population was small the researcher employed census which involves capturing the entire population as a sample size which is 55 participants. The study found out family support influenced empowerment of PWDS the most with 28(40%), followed by access to equitable employment 18(26%), then social protection 14(20%) and finally inclusive education 10(14%). This implied family support influenced empowerment the most. Most assistance and support come from family members or social networks. In conclusion therefore promoting a more inclusive society and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities requires improved access to basic education, vocational training relevant to labor market needs and jobs suited to their skills, interests and abilities, with adaptations as needed. There is the need to dismantle barriers and make the physical environment more accessible, provide information in a variety of formats, and challenge attitudes and mistaken assumptions about persons with disabilities. The study also concludes persons with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to deficiencies in services such as health care, rehabilitation, and support and assistance Based on the findings the study recommends Provide vocational guidance to PWDS to ease the transition from education and training to work life. Where opportunities for wage employment exist, assist persons with disabilities to find and retain jobs. This may require networking with employers, trade unions and employment service providers; providing job-seeking skills; conducting specific job and work site analysis to match the disabled person to a job; providing supports and accommodations.
