Center for Disability Justice - Kenya
Identity and Purpose
The Centre for Disability Justice – Kenya (CDJ‑K) is an autonomous, survivor‑led governance council anchored by Open Gate Foundation (OGF Kenya). As the Inclusion Hub of the ecosystem, CDJ‑K dismantles systemic barriers that exclude persons with disabilities (PWDs) from social, economic, and political life.
We move beyond traditional charity models. At CDJ‑K, we believe that people with disabilities must be the primary architects of their own justice. Nothing about us, without us.
Vision and Mission
Vision: A Kenya where persons with disabilities live with dignity, autonomy, and full accessibility—empowered to lead transformative change in their communities.
Mission: To unite disabled survivors, caregivers, and advocates into a powerful alliance that champions accessibility, protects rights, and fosters autonomy through survivor‑led governance and community‑driven solutions.
Our Mandate: Leading the Change
Championing Accessibility: From physical ramps to digital screen readers, we ensure the world is open to everyone.
Protecting Rights: We provide a survivor‑led shield against discrimination, GBV, and exclusion.
Fostering Autonomy: We equip PWDs with the tools to lead, govern, and thrive independently.
Strategic Pillars of Impact
1. Digital Accessibility and Inclusive Tech
ICT training for disabled fellows
Audits of digital platforms for screen‑reader compatibility
Adaptive tools for rural communities
2. Adaptive Livelihoods and Economic Justice
Inclusive cooperatives and micro‑enterprises
Assistive technology provision
Financial literacy training for economic sovereignty
3. Infrastructure Audits and Universal Design
Survivor‑led audits of public spaces, health centers, and schools
Data‑driven recommendations to county governments
Advocacy for universal design standards
4. Peer-Led Healing and Resilience
Healing circles and spiritual support sessions
Trauma‑informed peer mentorship
Emotional wellness programs centering dignity
Impact at a Glance
150+ Disabled Fellows trained in digital access and leadership
3+ Survivor‑led infrastructure audits submitted to county offices
2 Major policy briefs on disability rights adopted in local forums
1 Mobile accessibility toolkit piloted for rural survivors in Meru and Isiolo
Governance and Accountability
Independent. Rooted. Accountable.
Survivor‑Led Board: Composed entirely of disabled survivors, caregivers, and accessibility champions
Full Autonomy: Independent management of programs, budgets, and member selection
Synergy in Action: Collaboration with Kenya Youth Alliance and Women Justice Council to ensure climate, tech, and gender programs are fully accessible
Voices of the Council
“I used to be invisible. Now I lead. This council gave me the community to heal and the platform to challenge every barrier in my way.” — Joseph, Council Fellow
Call to Action
Join the Movement for Disability Justice True justice is only possible when every voice can be heard and every space can be entered.