The UN Partners Retreat on Joint Disability Inclusion Strategy (2025–2027): Shaping a New Future for Disability Inclusion

Last week, Next Step Foundation joined?the UN Partners Retreat on Joint Disability Inclusion Strategy (2025–2027) in?Nairobi, Kenya. Over four days, leaders from government, UN agencies, civil society, and private sectors gathered to examine our shared challenges and explore bold new approaches to disability inclusion. Here are some of the key insights and lessons?from the event.?

The retreat kicked off with opening remarks from officials representing NCPWD and the UN, setting a clear agenda: building a comprehensive strategy that transforms disability inclusion into a driver of sustainable economic growth. One statement resonated deeply: “Exclusion isn’t just a social issue—it costs our economy over KSh 1.1 trillion each year.” This powerful message framed our discussions and?emphasized the urgency of our work.?

During the breakout sessions, we explored several critical challenges:?

• Employment Barriers: Many noted that over half of Persons with Disabilities remain unemployed, and when employed, they often earn significantly less. Concerns were raised about the weak enforcement of the 5% employment quota, despite its potential to change lives.?
• Skills and Education: A recurring theme was the scarcity of accessible, quality training. We stressed the need for inclusive education and upskilling initiatives that equip individuals with market-ready skills.?
• Financial and Systemic Constraints: Stereotypes about the cost of reasonable accommodation and the lack of model institutions providing benchmarks continue to hinder progress.?
• Legal and Policy Frameworks: There is a pressing need for updated guidelines and robust enforcement mechanisms to ensure digital tools and services are accessible to all.?
• Access to Technology: High costs and limited local production of assistive devices were highlighted as major hurdles. We agreed that innovative, affordable solutions are essential.?
• Building Capacity: Strengthening digital literacy and technical skills emerged as vital for ensuring that all communities, especially marginalized ones, can fully participate in the digital economy.?

Throughout the retreat, several ideas stood out:?

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Reliable, disaggregated data is essential for crafting effective policies. Better data will help track progress and shape targeted interventions.?
• Collaboration Is Critical: No single entity can address these challenges alone. The need for public–private partnerships and multi-sector collaborations was emphasized repeatedly.?
• From Policy to Practice: We urged a shift from token measures to tangible actions—ensuring that policies are enforced, and that real change is achieved through systemic improvements.?

The insights from the retreat will help shape our strategies as we work with stakeholders to:?

• Enhance digital skills training and employment opportunities.?
• Advocate for stronger policy enforcement and updated legal frameworks.?
• Foster collaborations that bridge the gap between technology and accessibility.?

The discussions left us with a renewed commitment to our already mission. Our aim is to ensure that every person—regardless of ability—can access the opportunities that the digital economy offers.?

At Next Step Foundation, we are dedicated to turning these insights into action.?

What are your thoughts on these challenges and potential solutions? Let’s keep the conversation going.?

#DisabilityInclusion #DigitalEmpowerment #FutureOfWork #AIforGood #InclusiveEmployment?