At Kabete National Polytechnic, on the outskirts of the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, wave of hope and inclusion swept through the institution as it hosted International Paralympics Day in collaboration with Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital and Special Olympics Kenya.

The event, held on February 12, 2025, was more than a celebration – it was a lifeline for children with intellectual disabilities. It offered them access to critical health screening and a platform for recognition.

For many children with intellectual disabilities, access to specialised healthcare remains elusive. Recognizing this, Kabete National Polytechnic established the Special Intellectually Challenged Lab, where experts conducted developmental and behavioural tests to assess their well-being. Parents and guardians were also actively involved, receiving checklists and questionnaires to monitor their children’s progress at home.

In addition to developmental screenings, the event provided free eye check-ups and ear screenings. Specialists conducted refraction tests, detecting vision impairments and prescribing eyeglasses where necessary. Ear screenings helped identify hearing impairments, ensuring children received proper medical interventions.

“As the president of Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital, I am committed to ensuring that intellectually challenged children receive the necessary treatment – not only to support their health and development but also to promote inclusivity,” said Charles Nyambe, an optician at the hospital.

Beyond healthcare, the event provided information on the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of children before engaging in physical activities. Principal Secretary for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Esther Mworia, called for children with intellectual disabilities to be given the best possible conditions to thrive.

“The Special Intellectual Challenges Lab ensures that children are healthy and safe before participating in Paralympic sports, which require rigorous physical engagement,” Mworia noted.

The event was part of a broader effort spearheaded by Special Olympics Kenya to create an inclusive environment for individuals with disabilities. Patty Hill, chair of the Lions Club International Foundation, revealed that nearly 455,000 Special Olympics athletes across the country had benefitted from free vision screenings.

“This initiative, conducted at least once a month, is a step toward a more inclusive society,” Hill stated. She further said that Paralympic Day is about recognition, awareness and support for individuals with disabilities, urging the public to show empathy and compassion.

While sport provides an avenue for inclusion, experts at the event supported a holistic approach in supporting children with intellectual disabilities.

“In addition to pre-vocational and vocational training, these children should engage in regular physical exercise and maintain a nutritious diet rich in fruits and vegetables to improve their mental and physical well-being,” said Ruth Achieng, the head of the health science department at Kabete National Polytechnic.

The event attracted a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital, Lions Club International Foundation, Healthy Athletes Special Olympics Kenya, Special Olympics MedFest, Special Olympics Young Athletes, the Ministry of Education, and the Kabete National Polytechnic fraternity.

With each medical check-up, every child equipped with eye-glasses and with every voice advocating for inclusion, International Paralympics Day was described by some participants as “a beacon of hope” for many.

• A Tell / KNA report / By Nancy Akinyi