How to Apply and Get a Disability Certificate in Kenya
A Disability Certificate in Kenya is now an official document issued by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) that identifies an individual as having a disability. One needs to apply to get the disability certificate. The disability identity card (ID) will no longer be used.
An image of the NCPWD E-Citizen application process (NCPWD)
The certificate provides access to various benefits and services, including tax exemptions, healthcare, education support, and some assistive devices.
Migration from Disability Cards to Registration Certificates by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD)
The NCPWD is migrating from issuing traditional disability cards to electronic registration certificates to enhance service delivery, improve access to benefits, and streamline data management.
1. Eligibility
To qualify for a Disability Certificate, you must be recognized as a person with a disability, as defined by the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2003. Disabilities are broadly categorized into:
- Physical disabilities
- Visual disabilities
- Hearing disabilities
- Speech disabilities
- Intellectual or developmental disabilities
- Psychosocial disabilities
2. Medical Assessments
The application process begins with a medical assessment. Follow these steps:
To get a disability assessment report, you need to visit a registered public hospital where qualified medical professionals will assess your condition. Such hospitals include Mama Lucy hospital, Mbagathi hospital
This report must confirm your disability and be signed by the Director of Medical Services in your county. The report typically includes details of your disability and recommendations, which are then used as part of the application for a disability registration certificate from the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD).
It's crucial to ensure that the hospital in your county that is authorized to issue this report.
3. Register as a Person with Disability
a. Requirements for Registration
- National ID.
- Birth certificate (for minors)
- Filled NCPWD registration form, download the form here
- Coloured passport-sized photo.
- Disability medical assessment report.
b. Registration Process on E-Citizen
- Sign in if you have an existing eCitizen account or sign up to create an account
- Login with eCitizen or OTP (One Time Password) that will be provided
- Search for "National Council for Persons with Disabilities" under listed agencies
- Click on "Register as a person with Disability" and follow the steps provided
- Complete the registration and wait for application approval
4. Review Process
After submission, NCPWD will review your application and notify you of your status through a text message.
5. Issuance of the Disability Certificate
- If your application is approved, you will receive a Disability Certificate on the E-Citizen platform.
- The certificate includes your name, type of disability, and other relevant information, and serves as official recognition of your disability status.
You can access your disability certificate on the E-Citizen platform and download as many times as you want. You can also save your certificate on your phone, on the cloud or email for ease of access.
Benefits of the Disability Certificate
Once you have your Disability Certificate, you can access various benefits such as:
- Tax Reliefs: Persons with disabilities are eligible for tax exemptions.
- Assistive Devices and Services: Access to specific assistive devices, mobility aids, and government services designed for persons with disabilities.
- Healthcare Support: Easier access to medical care and specialized health services.
- Educational Support: Assistance with school fees or specialized educational programs.
- Employment Opportunities: Access to programs that promote the employment of persons with disabilities.
Article by: Maryanne Emomeri