Josephine Mwende Kamene is a young Kenyan lady who was born with a condition known as cerebral palsy. She is a disability rights and inclusion advocate and the founder of AbleRise Africa society. Despite the challenges she faces on a daily basis as a woman with cerebral palsy, she does not allow disability to limit her capability of being a voice of change to the most marginalized people in the society.
For instance, as an expectant mother, Josephine in labor, she was rejected by one hospital after another because of her condition. It was heartbreaking when a doctor stated, “We don’t handle such people!” Despite all odds, she finally delivered her baby at Kenyatta National Hospital defying the misconception that women with cerebral palsy cannot or should not bear children. She not only gave birth to her son but also named him, ‘Gift” and she hopes that no woman with cerebral palsy ever faces the pain, rejection, and humiliation that she went through.
She started an online campaign addressing Obstetric Violence (OBV) in Kenyan hospitals faced by expectant mothers with disabilities. In her online campaign, she has called on the Ministry of Health, Commission of Administrative Justice, and The Office of The Governor of Nairobi County to direct public hospitals in Nairobi County to operationalize a toll-free helpline for people with disabilities which will serve as a crucial lifeline for people with disabilities, offering immediate assistance and guidance in situations where discrimination, neglect, or mistreatment occurs. She is also seeking special consultation rooms for women with cerebral palsy as well as awareness programs to sensitize caregiving staff.
Josephine is committed to tirelessly working towards an inclusive healthcare system that provides dignified and compassionate care to all, ensuring that every expectant mother, regardless of disability, can navigate their reproductive journey with autonomy and respect.
She believes that change she needs has to start with her and from her lived experiences, she has vowed to use them as a cornerstone for change and inclusion for people with disabilities.
