As a little boy growing up in Mandera town in Northern Kenya, Harun Hassan wanted nothing more than to serve his community. He worked hard in school, and his academic brilliance shone through as he claimed the top spot in Mandera Primary School’s 1992 national exams, earning him a scholarship from Starehe Boys’ Centre to Mandera High School. Amongst 128 learners from this secondary school, Harun was among the select five who secured admission to university. After completing his undergraduate studies in Environmental Planning and Management at Kenyatta University, he set out on a path as a District Officer. Harun envisioned these experiences as the foundation for a future career in politics and a means of achieving his goal. However, fate had other plans for him, leading him down a path of using his brilliance to champion the rights of persons with disabilities in Kenya. 

  

The Accident and the Aftermath 

On March 23, 2007, Harun’s life took a sudden and profound turn when he was involved in a life-altering car accident. The impact of the crash inflicted severe injuries that left him paralyzed from the waist down. In the wake of the accident, Harun faced a multitude of challenges as he embarked on the daunting task of navigating a world that was ill-equipped to accommodate to the needs of persons with mobility disabilities. The once straightforward act of moving about became a complex endeavour as he adjusted to the use of a wheelchair. 

The aftermath of the accident was a period of profound self-discovery for Harun. Struggling to come to terms with his new reality, he faced moments of despair and questioned the value of his life. However, through resilience and the support of loved ones, he gradually embraced his disability as a new aspect of his identity. This acceptance became the catalyst for his journey towards advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities. 

  

Founding of NONDO 

Driven by a passion to create positive change and challenge the narratives around disability, Harun, together with like-minded friends, founded the Northern Nomadic Disabled Persons Organization (NONDO) in 2014. This organization sought to address the double marginalization experienced by persons with disabilities from nomadic communities. Harsh living conditions, frequent wars, and drought in the region often leaves many individuals with disabilities, adding to the challenges they already face. 

To address these issues and raise awareness, NONDO introduced several innovative concepts such as the Desert Wheel Race, a sporting event that showcases the abilities of persons with disabilities and promotes their inclusion in society. By harnessing the transformative power of cultural events, NONDO works to reframe the narrative around disability, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting the potential of individuals, regardless of their physical condition. 

  

Stepping Away from NONDO and Becoming Executive Director of NCPWD 

After serving as the founder of NONDO for six years, Harun felt ready to explore other avenues in disability advocacy. He stepped down, allowing other experienced individuals to take the reins as he sought a new path for himself. Around this time, Harun faced a significant decision – he had applied for the position of Executive Director of the National Council for Persons With Disabilities (NCPWD) and got the job, and at the same time had been accepted for a Ph.D. program at The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. The PhD presented the chance to further specialize in public administration since completing his graduate studies from Indira Gandhi National Open University in 2010. However, he also recognized the potential impact he could have with a broader platform to drive systemic change and further promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities in Kenya. Driven by his passion for advocacy, he sacrificed furthering his studies to join NCPWD in December 2020.  

 

Spearheading Programs for Persons With Disabilities in Kenya

As the executive director of NCPWD, Harun Hassan spearheads a series of transformative initiatives that have left a lasting impact. One of his greatest accomplishments in this role has been decentralizing the registration of persons with disabilities in the country. This overhaul of the registration system has eliminated unnecessary delays and made it more accessible for individuals to register their disabilities, ensuring their needs are better addressed. 

Furthermore, under Harun’s leadership, the NCPWD shifted from providing bursaries to granting full scholarships for secondary school learners with disabilities. This change, accompanied by mentorship and career guidance programs, is opening doors of opportunity and empowerment for these students, emphasizing the importance of education as a means to combatting exclusion. 

Harun Hassan’s journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. From his humble beginnings as a bright student in Mandera to his current role as a passionate advocate for disability rights, Harun’s dedication is leaving an indelible mark on Kenya’s disability community, bringing them one step closer to a more inclusive and equitable society. 

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