• Inclusivity and Representation of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in HOYAB
• From its inception, Homabay Youths in Agribusiness (HOYAB) has been committed to creating an inclusive platform that empowers all youth, regardless of their physical, social, or economic circumstances. Recognizing that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are often marginalized in mainstream agricultural initiatives, HOYAB has taken deliberate steps to ensure their full participation and representation in its activities and leadership structures. Creating Opportunities for PWDs Inclusive Membership: HOYAB has an open-door policy that encourages persons with disabilities to join the organization and actively participate in its programs. By ensuring accessibility and inclusivity in all activities, HOYAB provides PWDs with equal opportunities to benefit from agribusiness training, mentorship, and market linkages. Specialized Training Programs: The organization recognizes that PWDs may face unique challenges in engaging with agribusiness. To address this, HOYAB conducts specialized training sessions tailored to their needs, such as using adaptive farming tools, embracing technology for remote operations, and leveraging value addition as a less labor-intensive way to participate in agribusiness. Funding and Support: HOYAB collaborates with stakeholders to provide financial support and grants to PWDs interested in agribusiness. This ensures they have access to the resources needed to start or scale their farming ventures. Showcasing Success Stories: HOYAB actively celebrates the achievements of PWDs within its network, sharing their stories to inspire others and advocate for greater inclusion in the agricultural sector. Leadership Representation One of HOYAB’s most progressive steps towards inclusivity is ensuring that PWDs are represented at the highest levels of decision-making. The organization has established the position of PWD Representative within the County Executive Committee to ensure that the voices of persons with disabilities are heard and their unique needs addressed. Roles of the PWD Representative: Advocate for the inclusion of PWD-friendly policies and practices in all HOYAB activities. Facilitate communication between PWD members and the leadership to address challenges or barriers they may face. Promote awareness about the potential of PWDs in agribusiness, both within the organization and the broader community. Collaborate with local and national stakeholders to secure resources and support for PWD initiatives. Ensuring Accessibility HOYAB is committed to making its programs and activities accessible to all members, including PWDs. This includes: Conducting training sessions in accessible venues. Providing sign language interpreters during events and meetings. Leveraging technology to allow remote participation for those unable to attend in person. Partnering with organizations that specialize in assistive technologies to provide tools and equipment for PWDs in agriculture. Empowering PWDs Through Agribusiness Through its inclusive approach, HOYAB has enabled PWDs to become active contributors to the agricultural value chain. Many PWD members have successfully ventured into areas such as: Horticulture: Leveraging small spaces to grow high-value crops like vegetables and herbs. Poultry Farming: Managing less physically demanding operations with high returns.  Moving forward, the organization aims to: Expand Representation: Increase the number of PWD representatives at both county and sub-county levels.Strengthen Partnerships: Work closely with disability-focused organizations to enhance its programs and reach more PWDs. Develop Accessible Infrastructure: Ensure that all future projects, such as demonstration farms and resource centers, are fully accessible to PWDs.

Create More Leadership Opportunities:Encourage PWDs to take up leadership roles within HOYAB and beyond, breaking barriers and inspiring others. Conclusion By prioritizing inclusivity and empowering persons with disabilities, HOYAB is not only championing equality but also unlocking the untapped potential of a vibrant and resilient group. Through deliberate efforts to provide opportunities, representation, and support, the organization is paving the way for a more inclusive agribusiness ecosystem in Homa Bay County. As HOYAB continues to grow, its commitment to empowering PWDs remains a cornerstone of its mission to transform lives through agriculture.