By Eddah Waithaka
Hundreds of children with disabilities and their caregivers gathered at Dagoretti Special School today to mark the second edition of International Day of Play, an event emphasizing the critical role of play in child development, particularly for children with special needs.
Organized by Action Foundation in partnership with the Nairobi County Government and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), the event highlighted the challenges faced by children with disabilities in accessing therapy, education, and social inclusion.
A Lifeline for Development
Dr. Michael Mwangi, Head of Occupational Therapy at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, stressed the importance of therapeutic play in helping children with disabilities develop cognitive, social, and motor skills.
“A child’s occupation is play,” Dr. Mwangi said. “But for children with disabilities, therapeutic play is not just fun, it’s a structured intervention to help them reach developmental milestones.”
He lamented that many children miss out on therapy due to stigma, lack of awareness, and financial barriers, urging parents to seek early intervention.
Action Foundation’s Push for Inclusion
Maria Omare, Founder and Executive Director of Action Foundation, said the event aimed to challenge stereotypes and encourage families to bring children with disabilities into the open.
“Many children remain hidden due to stigma,” Omare said. “Play is therapy. It helps them develop skills, build confidence, and integrate into society.”
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The foundation has reached over 25,000 children across Kenya since 2009, offering therapy, education support, and community outreach.
Parents Share Their Struggles and Triumphs
Alice Mutindi, a 23-year-old mother, shared her journey with her three-year-old daughter, Angel Natasha, who has mobility challenges. “Action Foundation changed our lives,” Mutindi said.
“My daughter couldn’t walk, but through therapy, she’s improving. Today, seeing her play with other children makes me so happy.”
Sports as a Pathway for Special Needs Children
Francis Omanyala, Principal of Dagoretti Special School and National Chairman of Special Needs Sports Kenya, emphasized that sports provide a crucial career pathway for children with intellectual and physical disabilities.
“Not every child can be a doctor or teacher, but they can excel in sports,” Omanyala said. “We must invest in their talents so they can become self-reliant.”
While Kenya’s 2025 Persons with Disabilities Act marks progress, stakeholders demand more funding and enforcement to ensure therapy and education are accessible.
“The law is a good start, but we need budgets to match,” Omare said. “Every child deserves a chance to thrive.”
As the event ended, children laughed, played, and participated in adaptive sports proof that inclusion is possible with the right support.
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