MPs back landmark Bill for Persons with Disabilities

New clause introduced to provide persons with permanent disabilities a lifetime income tax exemption certificate

The Persons with Disabilities Bill (2023), which repeals the outdated 2003 Act and establishes a robust, constitution-aligned framework for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), moves to President William Ruto’s desk, after the Senate passed the Bill on 3rd April 2025.

The new legislation affirms critical rights of PWDs including access to education, employment, healthcare and public spaces, while mandating both National and County Governments to fulfil their obligations towards PWDs.

Sponsored by Senator Crystal Asige, the Bill also crucially provides tax relief for PWDs, tax exemptions for parents and legal guardians of PWDs, as well as monthly stipends for parents and legal guardians serving as full-time caregivers.

This is in addition to requirements for sign language interpreters and gender balance in parliament. It recognises and protects, for the very first time in Kenya, the rights and freedoms of the neurodiverse community – which includes individuals with autism.

Senator Asige said: “Too often, Persons with Disabilities are forgotten. Too often, our needs are unfulfilled – From inclusive education and accessible public spaces, to empowering vocational programs and incentivising public and private sector institutions to become disability confident. My work is all about creating a Kenya where everyone can thrive, feel valued, and write their own stories.

“I pay tribute to my colleagues in Parliament as well as other advocates for their resounding voices of support, without which this achievement would not have been possible. Together, we have laid the foundation for a brighter, more inclusive future for PWDs in Kenya, and I am deeply honoured to have championed this cause. As we celebrate this milestone, let us remain committed to implementation of this law as this is the only way we can experience the real, tangible change we envision across our great nation.”

Parliament unanimously voted to pass the Bill, and made it unambiguously clear about the rights and dignity of Persons with Disabilities. It is a victory for inclusion, equality, and justice.

The Persons with Disabilities Bill (2023) now heads to State House to be signed into law.