Empowering Caregivers: Insights from The CARE Conference

Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. – Helen Keller

The Action Foundation recently hosted the inaugural CARE (Caregiver Awareness Resource and
Empowerment) Conference. This groundbreaking two-day event, themed; Lived Experiences of
Caregivers of Children with Disabilities: Nurturing Care, Representation, Voice, Agency, and
Grassroots Advocacy; gathered over 1,400 caregivers, community health workers,
representatives from Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), government stakeholders, and
private sector partners. United by a common goal, participants sought to champion disability
inclusion across the country through empowering of caregivers.

Creating a Platform for Change

As the first event of its kind, the CARE Conference offered an unparalleled opportunity for
caregivers of children with disabilities to share their experiences, build connections, and stay
informed on new interventions, especially regarding policy advancements, infrastructural
support, and community backing from various stakeholders. The Action Foundation, driven by
its mission to promote inclusive and resilient communities where children with disabilities can
thrive, emphasized the significance of care groups. These groups serve as essential spaces for
delicate conversations, deliberate actions, and sustainable interventions, all aimed at improving
the lives of children with disabilities.

Keynote Highlights

The keynote address by Mr. Stijn Kneppers of the Benjamin Foundation underscored the vital
role caregivers play in the lives of children with disabilities and highlighted the importance of
nonprofit support in realizing this role. “Caregivers possess incredible strength. They are the
ones who intricately know the details concerning their children, and as stakeholders, we need to
lend our resources and voices to celebrate their contribution to society,” Kneppers stated, setting
a tone of recognition and empowerment and more backing towards caregivers empowerment.

Panel Discussions: Tackling Unique Challenges

The conference featured enlightening panel discussions that delved into the unique challenges
faced by parents and caregivers of children with disabilities. Panelists shared personal journeys,
emphasizing the role of acceptance in alleviating psychological and emotional burdens. Crucial
conversations on the importance of data in structuring interventions were held, revealing how
misrepresentation in children with disabilities in schools and communities contributes to
insufficient support from stakeholders. This misrepresentation impacts budgeting and the overall
understanding of the disability landscape, highlighting the need for better infrastructure, more
special schools, trained personnel, and increased representation in both local and national
governments.

A Call for Urgency

An urgent call for better representation, inclusion, and participation echoed throughout the
conference. “The time is today and it is now; we, as sector players, have to wholeheartedly
commit to fulfilling our responsibilities to caregivers,” urged Maria Omare, founder and
Executive Director of the Action Foundation. The convening also addressed the mental and
emotional well-being of caregivers, reminding them that they are not alone and the need to
practice self-care on themselves in order to serve their beneficiaries better. The value of the care
groups was highlighted, these groups were created to offer safe a space to celebrate milestones,
ease burdens, and create more opportunities to mobilize and advocate for issues concerning the
disability community.

Active Participation and Advocacy

The conference made a strong call for caregivers to participate actively in government processes,
especially those concerning disability. Caregivers were encouraged to engage in local community
barazas and interact with policymakers, including members of parliament and local chiefs, to
better advocate for their concerns. This call for participation was inspired by the Caregivers
Pledge, which emphasized the need to be heard, seen, and counted. Complemented by the
Dagoretti Declaration, this pledge marked a concrete commitment by stakeholders and partners
to drive concerted efforts in supporting the disability caregivers; agenda and fostering inclusion.

Launch of The Action Foundation Dagoretti Therapy Center

A significant highlight of the conference was the launch of a new therapy center by the Action
Foundation at the Dagoretti Special School. This center aims to provide rehabilitative services in
mobility, speech, and support groups for the disability community, adding to the existing centers
across Nairobi County. This milestone underscores the continuous efforts to support caregivers
and enhance the quality of life for children with disabilities.

Key Outcomes and Future Directions

The conference concluded with a resounding theme of inclusion, active participation, and
advocacy. Key outcomes included the signing of the Dagoretti Declaration, committing to
advocate for and empower caregivers. The importance of accurate data collection for securing
budget allocations and support for disability services was emphasized, along with encouraging
caregivers to unite and clearly articulate their needs.
Economic empowerment for caregivers was also prioritized, with initiatives like table banking
and skill development aimed at fostering financial independence. The inspiring voices of 1,400
caregivers highlighted the strength of the movement, reinforcing the commitment to advocate for
the rights and well-being of children with disabilities and their caregivers.

As the curtains drew on the inaugural CARE Conference, the energy and enthusiasm were
palpable. The event not only facilitated crucial conversations but also ignited a collective
determination to drive meaningful change. The dedication of caregivers, stakeholders, and
partners to work together promises a future where disability inclusion is not just a goal but a
reality. Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive community for all.