By Dennis Gichuiri
Female teachers living with disabilities and those raising children with special needs have renewed calls for affirmative action in promotions and policy formulation within the education sector during this year’s Mother’s Day celebrations.
Speaking during the celebrations held on Sunday, May 10, 2026, officials from the Kenya Union of Post Primary Education Teachers (KUPPET) Nairobi branch urged the government and education stakeholders to prioritise inclusivity and recognition of teachers living with disabilities.
KUPPET Nairobi Branch Chairperson Peter Wafula said the event was organised to honour mothers living with disabilities and those raising children with special needs, noting that many of them continue to demonstrate resilience despite numerous challenges.
“Today we are celebrating Mother’s Day in a special way by honouring mothers living with disabilities and those with children who are differently abled. It is important to recognise their resilience and dedication,” said Wafula.
He called on the government and stakeholders in the education sector to ensure persons living with disabilities are fully considered during policy formulation and implementation.
KUPPET Nairobi Branch Secretary General Isaac Masengei advocated for the establishment of dedicated gender and Persons with Disabilities (PWD) desks to address challenges affecting teachers more effectively.
“The Teachers Service Commission should consider women living with disabilities, as well as those raising children with special needs, when handling issues of promotion,” said Masengei.
Nairobi Branch Gender Secretary Risper Otwori urged families and the government to ensure the safety of teachers and children living with disabilities by creating more disability-friendly environments in workplaces and schools.
Meanwhile, KUPPET Nairobi Branch Chairperson for Gender and PWD Elsie Njuguna called for greater recognition and fair treatment of teachers living with disabilities, particularly in career progression.
“Let us celebrate our mothers and teachers who are often forgotten, yet their contribution to society through education remains invaluable,” said Njuguna.
She added that this year’s theme was: “Celebrating Resilience and Honouring Mothers’ Contribution in Empowering Society Through Education.”
