Francis, who is blind, is studying to become a teacher at Keyatta University, Kenya. © Sarah Elliot / Sightsavers

Include disabled people in international development

Sightsavers' work with the Kenya Union of the Blind (KUB) is a shining example of what Disabled People's
Organisations (DPOs) can achieve with the right support.

Sightsavers supported an assessment of KUB's advocacy capacity, then provided capacity-building, technical and financial support to respond to the gaps. KUB representatives now effectively negotiate with local government officials, businesses and associations. For example, KUB has successfully advocated for financial resources for children with special educational needs, graduate training, employment of teachers with visual impairments, and assistive technology to make education more accessible. Thanks to KUB, Francis (pictured above), who is blind, has been able to attend Kenyatta University to study to become a teacher.