DASK Calls for Deliberate Inclusion of Deaf, Neurodivergent and Intellectual Disability Communities in Machakos AYP HIV Response
Disability Advocacy and Services Kenya (DASK) used its seat at the Machakos County HIV Multi-Sectoral Committee (CMC) quarterly meeting to press for the deliberate inclusion of persons who are Deaf, neurodivergent or have an intellectual disability in adolescent and young people (AYP) HIV programming.
The meeting was held on 15th September 2026 at the County Commissioner’s Boardroom in Machakos. It was organised by the County Government of Machakos, Department of Health, and brought together government departments, development partners, civil society and AYP representatives. DASK was represented by Festus Mwanza and Emmanuel Ngunza.
No one should be left out
DASK told the meeting that these three groups are often left out of AYP HIV programming, which makes them more vulnerable. The organisation called for their deliberate targeting in county programmes.
Making needs visible in the data
DASK also proposed that the county’s data tools include typologies that bring out each person’s accommodation needs in the services environment. Once needs are recorded, health facilities can identify them and respond.
The County AIDS and STI Coordinator (CASCO) gave DASK an appointment to discuss the tool. It will be circulated across the county to collect data and improve service delivery in facilities.
A seat at the table
DASK asked to be made a member of the CMC and to receive invitations like the rest of the team. Jacob Ngumi seconded the request, and the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) promised to take it up and update DASK.
County picture
The meeting reviewed the 2025/2026 achievements of the eight sub-county committees and the county’s AYP data on HIV, teenage pregnancy and gender-based violence. Director Muriithi insisted that sub-county reports be discussed so that members could understand the position of the county as a whole.
Among the figures presented, viral load uptake among adolescents aged 10 to 19 stood at 31%, against 60% overall. Teenage pregnancy accounted for 15% of antenatal clinic attendance between January and July 2026.
What next
DASK will follow up on the appointment with the CASCO, pursue its CMC membership request, and keep tracking the agreed county actions. It looks forward to the next quarterly meeting.
