From sports to advocacy – the journey of the Isiolo Umbrella Disability Group

Stories | December 12, 2025

The Promoting Inclusive Delivery of Eye Care (PRIDE) Project is a multi-sectoral initiative funded by CBM Australia through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) and implemented by African Inland Church Health Ministries (AICHM) in partnership with the Isiolo County Government in Kenya. The project integrates inclusive eye health, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), and socio-economic empowerment for people with disabilities, aligning with both the Isiolo County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) and Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) goals. 

The Isiolo Umbrella Disability Group  

What began as a group of para-volleyball enthusiasts has grown into a powerful voice for disability inclusion in Isiolo County. The Isiolo Umbrella Disability Group started by bringing people with disabilities together through sport, building camaraderie and confidence.  
 
In 2018, the group formalised their structure, registering as a Self-Help Group and expanding their focus to include economic empowerment and advocacy.

Key Achievements and Activities

1. Village Savings and Loan Association (VSLA) 
   The Isiolo Umbrella Disability Group established a VSLA to support members financially. With 20 active members, they saved KES 336,000 (AUD $3,930) over an 11-month cycle. Entrepreneurial and financial literacy training (including bookkeeping and microfinance) helped members explore new income-generating activities.
2. Inclusive Eye Health and Assistive Devices 
   Through this initiative, group members accessed essential eye care services and assistive devices. Families were encouraged to have their children assessed and registered with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD), unlocking access to services and disability cards.
3. WASH Infrastructure 
   Children with disabilities were supported in their schools to adopt good hygiene and health practices. The group advocated for and helped build a water tank and accessible toilet for the community, improving hygiene and dignity for children with disabilities, especially during school holidays when they are at home. 
4. Community Empowerment and Advocacy 
   Members now confidently speak about disability rights. One member shared: “Now I can stand up and talk about disability. We no longer hide our children – we bring them out and fight for their rights.”

The group has partnered with other Organisations of People with Disabilities (OPDs) to lobby for the passage of a County Disability Bill. This bill seeks budgetary support to uphold the rights of people with disability, including ensuring accessible infrastructure, inclusive participation in meetings, and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to discussions – ultimately driving systemic change. 

What has been the impact? 

The project has helped transform the Isiolo Umbrella Disability Group from a sports-based community into a recognised advocacy and empowerment platform. Their work has improved access to health, education, and sanitation for people with disabilities and strengthened their voice in county-level decision-making. 
 
This illustrates how inclusive, community-driven development (when paired with strategic partnerships and capacity strengthening) can shift mindsets, improve lives, and create lasting change. The Isiolo Umbrella Disability Group is now a beacon of hope and a model for disability inclusion in Isiolo County. 
 
CBM Australia acknowledges the support of the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).  

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