I was one of 32 youth invited to the French Embassy in Kenya to discuss the creation of a strategic inclusion policy for the years 2022 and 2027. A diverse collection of young minds gathered around three round tables.

I sat at the second table, where we had a meaningful discussion about how to make society more inclusive and what needs to be done to make inclusion a reality in various sectors. In her formal introduction, Ambassador Aline Kuster Menager thanked us for our valuable suggestions and contributions to the Embassy’s draft development policy that had been sent to us prior to the event.

I have to admit that there was a good mix of experts from various fields at the tables, which helped the discussions move in the right direction. We looked at issues that we wanted to be objectively addressed and dissected the draft policy at our table. Improvements, value additions, and criticisms all took center stage.

As a representative of disability inclusion, which is inABLE’s mantra, I made the group aware that disability is extensive and that, in order to create an inclusive society, inequality regarding disability must be eliminated. In addition, we dealt with issues of inclusion in education, the health care system, and civil society. Lunch was ready to be served before we knew it, which was jokingly referred to as a convivial moment.

I got a chance to talk to the Ambassador, and we caught up on the discussions about a society that is inclusive. I explained to her that the effects of the pandemic are still being felt, and that the monster of mental illness, which will consume us if we don’t take care, makes matters even worse. In addition to the stressful circumstances of daily life, the disability community is more affected by the issue of acceptance and fitting in.

Following lunch, the compiled recommendations from the three tables were presented. We then gathered for a photo session, and thereafter members mingled and built meaningful connections.

I am indebted to the French Embassy in Kenya for inviting inABLE (me, as the representative of the non-governmental organization), as well as all of the other eminent participants, to work on policies that can result in a society that is more inclusive in order to achieve inclusion in Kenya.

Written by Julius Mbura, inABLE Advocacy Officer