This resource presents a costed policy study on investing in disability-inclusive and gender-responsive community care and support systems across the life cycle in Kenya, developed by the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection. Grounded in Kenya’s obligations under international and regional disability rights instruments, the study reviews existing care and support systems, identifies gaps in demand and supply, and develops detailed, costed policy scenarios to promote autonomy, inclusion, and community-based support for persons with disabilities. It highlights critical shortcomings in areas such as legal capacity, deinstitutionalization, inclusive education, human support, transport, housing, and assistive technologies, noting that gaps are particularly acute for children with disabilities who lack adequate family care and are at risk of institutionalization or segregation. The report emphasizes shifting away from institutional models toward family- and community-based care, including inclusive early childhood development, home-based and flexible education options, caregiver support, and respite services. Through proposed investments—such as expanded disability and caregiver allowances, formalized community “circles of care,” accessible transport, and assistive devices—the policy aims to strengthen social protection systems that better support children without family care, reduce reliance on institutions, and address the disproportionate burden of unpaid care borne by women and girls.
