8 June 2026
The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Kitale, Bishop Henry Juma Odonya, and the Governor of Trans Nzoia County, George Natembeya, officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening inclusion and empowerment for persons living with disabilities through the Building Effective Networks – Multi-Annual Programme Plan (MAPP) 2026–2030. The signing ceremony took place at the Trans Nzoia County Headquarters on 8 June 2026.
The agreement brings together three key partners: the Catholic Diocese of Kitale, the Trans Nzoia County Government, and Cheshire Disability Services Kenya. The partnership will be implemented over a five-year period, from 2026 to 2030, with the shared goal of improving the quality of life and opportunities available to persons living with disabilities across the county.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Bishop Odonya expressed his gratitude to Governor Natembeya for embracing the partnership and demonstrating a commitment to supporting persons living with disabilities. He emphasized that the Diocese remains dedicated to promoting human dignity, social justice, and inclusive development alongside its evangelization mission.
Governor Natembeya reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to working closely with the Catholic Diocese of Kitale and Cheshire Disability Services Kenya in implementing the programme. He commended the Diocese for its continued efforts in addressing social and developmental challenges within communities while remaining steadfast in its pastoral mission.
The partnership will focus on empowering children and young people living with disabilities by helping them develop self-awareness, self-acceptance, confidence, and the capacity to advocate for their rights. It will also seek to improve access to healthcare services, quality education, psychosocial support, leadership opportunities, and meaningful participation in decision-making processes that affect their lives.
In addition, the partners will collaborate in developing strategies, policies, and legislative frameworks that protect and promote the rights of persons with disabilities. Through this collaborative approach, the programme aims to ensure equal opportunities, social inclusion, and greater participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of community life.
This partnership marks a significant milestone in advancing an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of ability, is valued, empowered, and given the opportunity to thrive.
Catholic Diocese of Kitale