- The award is scheduled to be formally presented on October 24, 2026, to coincide with World Polio Day.
Nominated Member of Parliament Harold Kipchumba has been named the winner of the Distinguished Polio Advocacy Award by the Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy (RCWDA).
In a statement published by the Parliament of Kenya, the award recognises his commitment to polio eradication and disability rights.
“According to the award notification, Kipchumba was recognised for his courage, persistence, ability to build trust and sustained commitment to service, in efforts to protect children from polio and promote inclusion for persons with disabilities,” the statement read.
The award is scheduled to be formally presented on October 24, 2026, to coincide with World Polio Day.
“The award is scheduled to be formally presented on October 24, 2026, to coincide with World Polio Day; an annual global campaign that raises awareness of efforts to eradicate the disease.”
Kipchumba, the National Assembly representative for persons with disabilities, has leveraged his personal experience with disability to advocate for marginalised communities and advance policies that promote equal opportunities.
On winning the award, Kipchumba said the award highlights the importance of community engagement and sustained advocacy in immunisation campaigns, particularly in areas where public confidence in vaccination remains a challenge.
The statement further noted that Kipchumba has been at the forefront championing for the protection of children.
“Through his advocacy, Kipchumba has championed efforts to protect children from a disease that can cause lifelong paralysis and disability.”
The statement added: “His work also underscores the link between polio eradication and broader efforts to build inclusive communities where persons with disabilities can participate fully in social, economic and political life.”
RCWDA is an international, cause-based Rotary e-club devoted to disability rights, dignity and inclusion. At its core is the principle that persons with disabilities should shape the decisions that affect them.
The club recognises individuals whose commitment helps shield children from preventable disease and champions the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in society.