The County Government of Uasin Gishu has conducted a deaf awareness and sensitisation session at St. John’s Sigowet Primary School in Kiplombe Ward, Turbo Sub-County, as part of Day Two of International Deaf Awareness Week 2026.

The outreach sought to educate learners on deafness, the rights of deaf persons, inclusion and the need to embrace people with disabilities.

It brought together the Uasin Gishu Deaf Community, led by Chairlady Rosemary Saina, officers from the Department of Gender and Social Protection, and partner organisation Edmund Rice.

Ms. Caustencia Tanui, who represented Chief Officer for Gender and Social Protection Marion Birgen, led the county delegation. Sign language interpreter George Lubuga facilitated the session.

“We are here to ensure that our children understand that deafness is not a barrier and that every learner has equal rights,” Tanui said. “Inclusion starts in the classroom, and we must break the stigma surrounding persons with disabilities.”

The institution’s Headteacher Mrs. Peris Kamau welcomed the team and praised the initiative.

“This programme opens the eyes of our pupils to the realities faced by the deaf community,” she said. “It teaches them empathy and the value of supporting one another regardless of ability.”

Mrs. Rosemary Saina, chairlady of the Uasin Gishu Deaf Community, urged greater societal acceptance.

“Deaf people have the same potential as anyone else. What we need is understanding, accessible communication and equal opportunities,” she said through an interpreter.

The activities are being held under the leadership of Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii Chelilim.

Celebrations will climax on Friday, September 25, with a grand event featuring a procession from Town Hall to a Home Craft.

by Maurice Aluda