Persons with Disabilities Bill 2002: implications concerning visual disabilities for academic library and information services in Kenya

Abstract

The paper defines the term disability and how it fits among persons with visual disabilities. Specific provisions in the Persons with Disabilities Bill 2002 that may affect library and information services to visually handicapped students in learning institutions in Kenya are identified and listed. Establishment of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities to oversee all matters affecting the disabled is highlighted. The National Development Fund for Persons with Disabilities to provide financial assistance is equally cited. The author provides a detailed interpretation of the Bill with a bias towards provision of library and information services for visually handicapped people. The paper concludes that the Bill is likely to open up educational opportunities for the visually handicapped students in Kenya by widening the range of information sources.