Mwaura calls for national action on Dyslexia as Karobia supports learners in Thika

Government Spokesperson in the Executive Office of the President, Dr. Isaac Mwaura, has urged Kenyans to recognise and address the challenges faced by children living with dyslexia, a learning disability that affects reading and comprehension.

Speaking on Wednesday during a Mazingira Day tree planting exercise at Thika Primary School for the Visually Impaired, Dr. Mwaura described dyslexia as a disability that is often misunderstood and neglected in policy and education systems.

“As a country, we must start talking about dyslexia. These are children who struggle with reading and comprehension, not because they are slow, but because they process information differently. If well supported, they can thrive and succeed. Look at Richard Branson, he is one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world, yet he has dyslexia,” he said.

Mwaura, who has been an advocate for persons with disabilities, pledged to push for policies and interventions that will create a supportive learning environment for children with dyslexia.

He was joined at the event by East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP Maina Karobia, who through Maina Karobia Foundation, announced scholarships for 10 bright but needy students at the institution beginning January 2026.

“These scholarships will target learners who are academically gifted but cannot afford school fees. We cannot let poverty kill the dreams of such children,” Karobia said.

The EALA legislator also called on well-wishers and local companies to support institutions like Thika Primary School for the Visually Impaired, noting that such schools faced numerous challenges due to the special needs of their learners.

“It should not be left to government alone. Every Kenyan, every company, has a role to play in giving these children a chance at life,” he added.

(RELATE VIDEO: Dr. Isaac Mwaura: Kenya Must Act on Dyslexia as EALA MP Karobia offers Scholarships to students)

Beyond education, the two leaders emphasised the importance of environmental conservation, rallying Kenyans to heed President William Ruto’s call to plant trees.

“Planting trees is planting hope. We especially encourage schools to plant fruit trees because they not only contribute to the environment but also provide food and income,” Dr. Mwaura noted.

The exercise brought together students, teachers and community leaders in Thika, all united under the twin themes of empowering learners with disabilities and conserving the environment for future generations.