OPD Capacity Building

Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) are essential advocates for disability inclusion. They not only represent the voices of their communities but also work tirelessly to influence policy, secure access to services, and push for systemic change. However, in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), OPDs operate in environments where funding is scarce, digital tools are limited, and opportunities for growth are often uneven.

As part of the AT2030 programme, funded by UK International Development and delivered through the Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub), we’ve launched an initiative to enhance the capacity of OPDs in Kenya and Pakistan. In Kenya, this work is being led by Kilimanjaro Blind Trust Africa (KBTA), with a focus on supporting OPDs to develop stronger leadership, technical proficiency, and collaboration mechanisms. In Pakistan, we're working with the Special Talent Exchange Program (STEP) to deliver this project. 

Understanding the Barriers

To better understand the operational and strategic challenges facing OPDs, a comprehensive needs assessment was conducted across three counties (Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu). This involved in-depth focus group discussions and a country-wide survey of more than 200 organisations.

Findings revealed persistent gaps in several areas:

• Access to digital tools and assistive technology remains limited
• Many OPDs lack formal engagement in policy processes
• Funding opportunities are sporadic and often inaccessible
• Organisational leadership and governance structures require strengthening
• Peer collaboration, especially with the private sector, is underdeveloped
• Rural-based OPDs face disproportionate barriers compared to their urban counterparts

These challenges impact not only service delivery but also the broader ability of OPDs to influence inclusive development agendas.

The Solution

To address these issues, KBTA and GDI Hub co-developed a capacity-building programme aligned with the needs identified in the assessment. This included a series of workshops and training modules designed to enhance organisational skills and leadership readiness.

Key areas of focus included:

• Leveraging mobile-based assistive technologies
• Building digital literacy and online engagement
• Effective storytelling for advocacy and awareness
• Resource mobilisation and grant development
• Strategic leadership, governance, and operational planning

Additionally, OPD leaders were invited to share their experiences through interviews, highlighting both the motivations behind their advocacy work and the tangible impact of targeted support.

Early Outcomes and Lessons

The capacity-building initiative is already delivering tangible results; participants report increased confidence in engaging policymakers and communicating their priorities, which is critical for influencing inclusive policies. Training in digital tools, storytelling, and advocacy has also helped OPDs refine their outreach strategies and broaden their impact. We’ve also seen organisational resilience improve, with greater awareness of funding opportunities, governance practices, and strategic planning.

These skills are helping OPDs operate more efficiently and sustainably. Rural organisations, often the most marginalised, are beginning to benefit from access to digital resources and knowledge networks, narrowing the gap with their urban counterparts.

By addressing both operational and strategic gaps, the initiative is positioning OPDs as stronger, more capable actors within the disability inclusion landscape. This work is helping ensure that persons with disabilities are not only represented in development efforts, but are also leading them.

Looking Ahead

The next phase of this work aims to:

• Expand capacity-building efforts across additional regions
• Foster stronger partnerships between OPDs, policymakers, and development actors
• Promote peer-led learning platforms to strengthen networks and sustainability
• Support the long-term integration of OPDs into national and regional planning processes

Through continued collaboration, innovation, and shared learning, this initiative is helping ensure that persons with disabilities are not only included but also leading the way.

Publications

• OPD Capacity Building for a Disability Inclusive Future Kenya Project Report  (2025)
• Empowering OPDs to Lead Change - video (2025)
• Assistive Technology User Fellowship:  Positioning OPDs as Equal Partners on Assistive Technologies (2023)