Effects of Disability Mainstreaming On the Performance of Ministry Of Transport and Infrastructure in Kenya

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of disability mainstreaming within the Kenyan public sector. The First specific objective of this study was to examine the effect of disability policy framework on the performance of Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure in Kenya. Secondly, to examine the effect of capacity building on the performance of disabled employees within the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure in Kenya. The third and final specific objective was to identify the impact of the infrastructure in place on the performance the disabled employees within the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure in Kenya. The respondents of the research included the Ministry’s top management team, supervisors and junior employees. The study targeted all the 360 employees in the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure in Kenya headquarters in Nairobi. This research consequently made use of primary data using the stratified sampling technique to collect data through the use of questionnaires. This study used descriptive research approach, which aimed at accurately describing the different variables being explored. The data was then analysed through statistical techniques whereby measures of central tendency and regression methods were used. The study established that the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure in Kenya had implemented laws and policies for the inclusion of persons with disability in its work environment. The research found out that employees with disability were entitled to a tax exemption which was by the Persons with Disability Act (2003) which indicated that persons with disabilities are entitled to rights to equal benefits, fringe benefits among others. The study also suggested that the performance of the Ministry was positively impacted by the inclusion of people living with disability. The improvement in performance was attributed to the relevant support actions for solving already existing problems facing persons with disability. The study revealed that the Ministry had employed persons with disability, with regards to the effects of capacity building on performance. The Ministry had made it possible for Persons living with disability to effctively access information within the workplace, which indicated the Ministry’s sensitivity towards the needs of people living with disability. The study further showed that the Ministry had properly designed infrastructure, within its premises with the building hosting the Ministry being engraved with lifts, access to ramps among others. As a results, people with disability feel well accommodated within the workplace, and they tend to contribute to both their well-being as well as the wellbeing of the organisation. The study concluded that despite the constitution having in place laws and policies contributing to the welfare of the employees, it is apparent that these laws are typically not enough to ensure guarantee that the persons with disabilities thoroughly enjoy their rights. This is as a result of organisations not implementing the rules and regulations protecting PWDs to the letter. Therefore, there is a need to create awareness on issues concerning persons with disabilities. Finally, employees should change their attitude positively to favour disability mainstreaming not only in the Ministry but in all organisations. The ministry should also ensure that there is a strong relationship between strategies set out and disability mainstreaming in the public sector. The above should be done through disability policy formulation, capacity building and sensitization training as well as infrastructure enhancement regarding provision of facilities. The study recommended the following actions concerning the various research objectives. With regards to policy framework on performance, the ministry should ensure that there exists a strong relationship between strategies and disability mainstreaming within the public sector. These policies are projected to go a long way in encouraging the right to equal employment to persons living with disability. Regarding the effects of capacity building on performance, the study recommends training to be carried out among the different personnel’s within the organisation, on matters relating to PWDs. The practice is expected to bring rise to the implementation of various disability policies and standards as a result of implementing, monitoring and evaluating performance units. The involvement of these stakeholders will ensure a successful training and capacity building among individuals. The study recommended having in place minimum standards and guidelines with regards to accessibility of information, opportunities, facilities and equipment for use by PWDs. The study suggested that buildings should install accessible ramps, accessible toilets, as well as provision of braille, and sign language interpreters among others.