How To Break Barriers to Financial Literacy For Persons with Disabilities

Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) gained critical insights into financial independence at a workshop hosted at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE).

The event, organized by the Financially Incorrect Podcast and sponsored by FXPesa, brought together financial experts, market leaders, and advocates to equip attendees with essential financial skills and resources. The workshop featured a high-impact panel discussion offering tailored financial advice for PWDs. Topics included saving, investing, retirement planning, overcoming workplace discrimination, and leveraging government programs. The initiative aimed to bridge the financial knowledge gap for PWDs and connect them with stakeholders who can support their journey to economic empowerment.

Panellist Abby Mungai, founder of Wealth Hub Empire, encouraged attendees to make the most of their limited resources. “Use the little income you have as a weapon,” she said, advising PWDs to live below their means, pursue remote work, and explore government support like the Hustler Fund and Inua Jamii.

Evans Mugi, CEO of VCG Asset Management, emphasized long-term planning for PWDs to prioritize retirement plans, medical insurance, emergency and education funds. “PWDs who have a source of income should look out for retirement plans, look out for medical insurance after retirement, set up emergency funds, education funds, and invest in government bonds, and shares from listed companies.” He added.

The event welcomed a diverse group of people with disabilities, unified by a shared goal of enhancing their financial knowledge and independence. The participants reflected a wide spectrum of backgrounds and raised many issues PWDs wanted government to help them with. Credits went to the organizers who took the time to explain the new landmark Persons With Disabilities Act 2025 that was signed by President William Ruto on how it will affect them, especially the effect it will have on their pockets.

“The main reason why we are doing this event today is to include everyone, focusing on PWD, to help them understand personal finance, make their finances better, and achieve financial freedom.” Said Rufas Kamau, Financial Market Analyst, FXPesa.

Addressing social barriers, Josephat Maina, Founder of Beyond Barriers Empowerment Network, called for inclusivity in hiring. “Self-stigma and discrimination remain major challenges. Employers should not ask candidates to disclose disability status during recruitment to avoid discrimination in the hiring process,” he noted. Maina further noted that PWDs should know their needs first and learn to manage them to gain a better financial advantage.

Gift Kori, Advisory Manager for SME Growth at the Nairobi Securities Exchange, urged the government to create more opportunities for PWDs. He also highlighted new SME funding mechanisms available through the NSE that can benefit PWD-led businesses.

The workshop adopted a practical approach, offering real-life solutions to the unique financial challenges faced by PWDs. Organizers called for continued collaboration among stakeholders to build a more inclusive financial ecosystem in Kenya.

Financially Incorrect Podcast host Barrack Bukusi acknowledged the real struggles PWDs go through to make it financially, admitting there is a need to have financial conversations at all levels. “Unfortunately, we live in a society that is not set up for PWDs to thrive financially, for them to make money, and this is a wake-up call to all entities to set up opportunities and products that fit PWDs.”

Read Also: Absa And Bolt Join Hands To Drive Financial Literacy Among Drivers