Gov Sakaja, Create a Hotline for PWDs in Public Hospitals in Nairobi

AbleRise Africa Society

 Why this petition matters

As narrated by  Josephine Mwende

It is every woman’s great desire to have a child or children of their own and enjoy the exciting journey of motherhood. Despite having cerebral palsy, I was over the moon when I learnt that I was expecting a baby, finally, God had remembered me and answered my prayers.

Then came the time for delivery, I was met with a rude shock when I got rejected from one hospital to another. I recall very well a female Doctor telling my mum upon arrival at the hospital that "WE DON'T HANDLE SUCH PEOPLE" this really broke my heart. Moving from one hospital to another in labor pains was quite an horrifying experience. Fear, anxiety and depression started to sink in, a gift from God was becoming a burden, with teary eyes, I looked up at the sky and asked God why this was happening to me.

A breakthrough came when Kenyatta National hospital finally agreed to take me in and help me deliver my baby. 

Women with cerebral palsy go through a rough time during this beautiful journey, they get rejected, abused and even in some cases have personal decisions of whether they should carry their child to term made on their behalf. 

Link to the petition: PETITION

There is a general misconception that women with cerebral palsy cannot or should not bear children because they risk giving birth to a child with cerebral palsy or mis-care for the child.

Every time I look at my son, Gift, I tell myself that no woman should go through the pain, rejection and humiliation that I went through, that every woman deserves to enjoy her pregnancy and deliver her baby with joy and get a dignifying healthcare while at it.

According to Nguvu Collective OBV Survey report findings 2024, of the 189 total survivor respondents,  11% were women with disabilities.  73% called for the implementation enforcing policies to protect women with disabilities rights during childbirth.  These narratives , often silenced and overlooked now stands as  powerful testimonies demanding urgent action and reforms.

I have therefore started this petition calling on the Ministry of Health, The Office of The Ombudsman and The Office of The Governor of Nairobi County to direct that public hospitals in Nairobi County:

  1. Operationalise a toll free hotline where people who face discrimination on the basis of their disability can call and report.
  2. Set aside a special room for consultation for women with cerebral palsy.
  3. Run awareness programs targeting the various cadres of staff on patients with cerebral palsy.

Sign and share this petition to call for equal health rights for expectant mothers with cerebral palsy and all persons with disabilities.


Disclaimer: This article was originally shared by Change.org

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular Posts

Empowering Girls with Disabilities

AbleRise Africa Society
Image
On October 11th, the world will be celebrating the  International Day of the Girl Child.  This annual observance highlights the unique challenges faced by girls worldwide and underscores the importance of empowering them to reach their full potential. This year's theme, " Girls' Vision for the Future ," offers a powerful lens through which we can examine the aspirations and experiences of girls, particularly those with disabilities. Girls with disabilities often face a  double burden of discrimination , both due to their gender and their impairments. They may encounter barriers in education, healthcare, and social participation, limiting their opportunities for growth and development. However, when provided with the necessary support and resources, girls with disabilities can become  powerful advocates for change  and contribute significantly to their communities. By empowering girls with disabilities, we not only enhance their individual well-being but also fos...
Read more

AbleRise Africa Society

AbleRise Africa Society
Image
Who we are AbleRise Africa Society is a non-profit organization that was formed by and for children, youths, and caregivers of persons with disabilities. Our main areas of focus is children, youth, and women with cerebral palsy. This type of disability is less understood, and stereotyped, and individuals with cerebral palsy face more sets of discrimination and societal exclusion compared to other forms of disabilities. Despite it having a 2.5% prevalence in a given population, and although there are no official statistics, it is estimated that 3 in 100 children have cerebral palsy. As such, we strive to be an inclusive society and champion the implementation of policies and programs that are focused on ensuring the well-being and welfare of people with disabilities, youth, and women. Mission   Be the hub and source of reliable information on disability to society. To empower the youth, women, and persons with disabilities towards self-reliance and independence. Champion equitable ...
Read more