The Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) today signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), setting the stage for a strategic partnership aimed at fostering inclusivity for Persons with Disabilities in Kenya’s business ecosystem.

Speaking during the signing, KNCCI President Dr. Erick Rutto noted that the partnership underscores the Chamber’s commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are not left behind in Kenya’s economic growth by ensuring that they have access to opportunities available to other entrepreneurs and the capacity to scale up their business.

“This MoU is a powerful statement by the Chamber on the organizations support for inclusivity in the business place for all, it is about creating sustainable economic value for businesses, communities, and the nation. An inclusive economy is a stronger economy, and this partnership paves the way for equal opportunity, innovation, and growth,” Dr. Rutto said.

Speaking on behalf of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), Chief Executive Officer Eva Njoroge welcomed the partnership, describing it as timely as the Council begins implementing the Persons with Disabilities Act 2025, which sets out clear obligations for businesses to embrace inclusivity.

She emphasized that KNCCI’s strength in policy influence and advocacy will be instrumental in ensuring successful rollout of the legislation, while the Council leverages the Chamber’s vast business networks to empower PWDs through training, capacity building, and access to opportunities.

“This partnership comes at a critical moment as we operationalize the PWD Act 2025. By combining KNCCI’s advocacy power and business reach with NCPWD’s technical expertise, we will not only enforce compliance but also unlock real opportunities for persons with disabilities to thrive as entrepreneurs, employees, and innovators,” Ms. Njoroge said.

Key areas of collaboration under the MoU include:

  • Business Development & Entrepreneurship: Joint support for entrepreneurship initiatives, mentorship, incubators, networking, and access to markets for PWDs, women, and youth.
  • Compliance & Disability Rights: Supporting businesses to comply with disability laws and champion non-discriminatory practices as envisioned in the PWD Bill 2024.
  • Digital Skills & Capacity Building: Co-developing digital and vocational training programs to enhance employability and entrepreneurial skills.
  • Policy Advocacy: Joint efforts to influence policies that promote economic inclusion, equal employment, and inclusive business practices.
  • Research & Knowledge Sharing: Conducting studies and sharing insights to inform better policies and programs.
  • Events & Awareness Campaigns: Hosting expos, job fairs, and campaigns to showcase success stories of inclusive businesses.
  • Recognition & Audits: Recognizing compliant companies and conducting accessibility audits for corporates.

“At KNCCI, we believe capacity building is the foundation of sustainable growth. Through our county chambers, we are committed to equipping entrepreneurs—including persons with disabilities—with the right skills, mentorship, and networks to compete effectively in today’s economy. This partnership with NCPWD strengthens our resolve to make training and empowerment more inclusive and impactful across the country,” said KK Mutai AG Chief Executive Officer.

Under the agreement, KNCCI will leverage its extensive national network across counties to create opportunities, mobilize members for jobs and mentorship, and advocate for inclusive policies. NCPWD will provide technical expertise in disability inclusion, design tailored training, and advise businesses on accessibility and inclusivity.

Both parties will also co-develop proposals and mobilize resources to support economic empowerment initiatives for PWDs, inclusive business development, training, and access to infrastructure and technology.

This partnership is expected to unlock possibilities and ensure that PWDs are fully integrated into Kenya’s business ecosystem—contributing to innovation, sustainable growth, and national prosperity.