Polio survivor advocates for inclusion in Kenya
Summary and headline written by AI from the source article. How we work
In Kenya, Samuel Chira, a 58-year-old polio survivor, spent much of his childhood hidden from public view because his family and community did not understand his disability.
His parents, unfamiliar with polio, initially sought spiritual explanations for his condition, taking him to prayer meetings. A Catholic priest intervened and secured Chira’s place in a special school at age 10, where he received assistive devices and an education.
Chira went on to complete his education and work for 33 years at Kenyatta National Hospital, becoming a strong advocate for disability inclusion. He believes that exposure and interaction are key to overcoming stigma and encourages people with disabilities to participate fully in community life. He stresses the need for accessible facilities and support so disabled people can live independently. Chira also emphasizes the importance of early medical care and routine polio immunisation for children.
Health experts are working to combat vaccine hesitancy and misinformation to prevent polio outbreaks, noting that even with eradication efforts, gaps in immunisation leave children vulnerable. In 2025, the World Health Organisation reported 52 cases of wild poliovirus globally, along with 238 cases of vaccine-derived poliovirus across 30 countries.
