I live for the happiness of people with disability

What were you doing before joining politics?

I was working for the ministry of Local Government and was also a leader with the disability movement where I was elected and re-elected chairperson several times.

Thereafter I started lobbying for disability mainstreaming and representation at different levels within the district.

I was then appointed the national vice chair of the national umbrella organisation of persons with disabilities.

I was part of the team reviewing the Constitution to ensure that the disabled were taken care of. I started campaigning and joined ODM. I lobbied and was nominated.

What does your job entail?

As per the Constitution I have three main roles. My constituents are the people with disabilities. I represent any disabled person in the 47 counties.

Secondly, the oversight role, by which I find out how devolution is helping the disabled: Are they benefiting in terms of job allocation, budgeting, and the 30 per cent tender rule for people with disabilities?

Finally, I ensure that the Bills and laws formulated in the Senate are disability friendly.

What do you love doing at your free time?

I visit groups of persons with disabilities and special schools and give them encouragement. I share meals with them.

What Bill are you currently sponsoring in the Senate?

I am sponsoring an amendment on the Disability Act; counties are not recognising the disabled, arguing that this was not devolved.

They are not budgeting for disability. The amendment will differentiate between the roles of the national and county governments on disability as well as how they should complement one another.

It will also establish the Disability County Board, which will advise the governor on issues affecting the disabled.

What in your life has brought you the greatest fulfillment?

I have managed to bring the disabled together to realise their potential; I was among the members who were working towards ensuring that Article 54 of the Constitution on the disabled appears the way it does. It is a plus on my side. It will help them forever.

How many children do you have?

I have three children and (live with) three orphans.

When did you get married?

I got married in 1995. My husband is a farmer and is very supportive.

How did your husband receive the news on your nomination?

Initially he was really against it because I was the only woman and he thought the men would take advantage of me. He changed and at some point even sold some of our maize to support the campaign.

What are some of the challenges you encounter in the course of duty?

Being a legislator with disability and a nominated woman, some of the elected members think that when we visit people with disabilities in their counties we are going to lobby for votes. Kenyans do not respect the disabled but I have gained some support from my colleagues. We are so much insulted.

Where would you prefer to go for your holidays?

I take my children for a retreat at camping areas in Naivasha and Mombasa.

Who do you look up to in life?

Raila Amollo Odinga. He does not lack anything but he goes the extra mile to fight for the common mwananchi who is facing a lot of challenges. I better face the bullet and die than sit down and watch people with disabilities facing challenges in life.

What’s your education background?

I’m trained as a telephone supervisor — I worked in telecommunication. When mobile phones came I saw that I was being underutilised, and then I changed to human resource management.

Do you get time to cook or share a meal with family?

Yes, especially when my children are around. I like working together with them. I give instruction and they follow. Rice and beef is our best meal.

Do you have a special talent?

I like singing. I am a talented singer and when not at work, you will find me in church singing.