KISII, Kenya- A multi-agency team led by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has begun a nationwide exercise to verify the eligibility of persons with disabilities (PWDs) seeking tax exemptions.
The month-long verification exercise is aimed at helping eligible persons with disabilities in both formal and informal employment access tax relief provided for under the law.
Speaking during a two-day exercise at the Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital (KTRH), NCPWD Chief Executive Officer Dr Michael Munene said the programme had begun in Kisii, a strategic centre serving more than seven neighbouring counties.
More than 400 persons with disabilities had been vetted by the assessment team in Kisii, he said.
Munene urged eligible PWDs to take advantage of the exercise and apply for tax exemption in the 12 counties where the verification exercise will be conducted.
He said the programme was part of efforts to ensure persons with disabilities receive the tax relief provided under the Persons with Disabilities Act.
The NCPWD chief executive also said the government was in the final stages of operationalising the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, which he said would strengthen the protection of rights and restructure enforcement mechanisms affecting persons with disabilities.
Verification requirements for PWD tax exemption
Kisii NCPWD officer Gabriella Ogom said the assessment process focuses on several aspects, including confirmation of disability registration, proof of income and the applicant’s tax compliance status.
She said applicants who do not meet the eligibility requirements would have an opportunity to appeal the assessment decision.
The appeals process, she added, is intended to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities who may have concerns about the outcome of their assessment.
The tax exemption application process has also been digitised through the e-Citizen platform.
Ogom explained that applicants are required to submit their applications online before appearing physically before an assessment team for verification.
IDs required during assessment
The Head of the Assessment Team at KTRH, Shem Onserio, urged persons with disabilities seeking the exemption to turn up with the necessary documentation.
Applicants are required to present a national identity card, while minors should provide a birth certificate and attend the assessment accompanied by their next of kin.
Onserio encouraged eligible PWDs to participate in large numbers, noting that the verification exercise would also provide important information for government planning and the development of programmes targeting persons with disabilities.
The nationwide exercise is expected to expand access to tax relief while helping authorities establish accurate information on eligible beneficiaries.
