- General
A renowned disability rights advocate and experienced social development leader is the new Country Director for Light for the World Kenya.
Richard Mativu (pictured above) has more than 17 years’ experience in social development, with an exceptional background in advocacy, inclusion and leadership.
He joins the Kenya team from CBM International, where he was Chief of Party for USAID Jumuisha programme.
Before that, Richard was with Sense International, an NGO supporting people who are deafblind, where he was Director for Sense International Kenya.
Richard has also worked as Senior Advisor and Regional Representative — East Africa at Deaf Child Worldwide and with several other NGOs in Kenya.
A celebrated disability advocate, especially for education rights for Deaf learners, Richard spearheaded the establishment of five Units for the Deaf which are used in public schools in Kenya.
His championing of disability rights saw Richard recognised with the prestigious presidential award Order of the Grand Warrior (O.G.W).
Richard, who is Deaf, has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) focused on strategic management from the University of Nairobi and is finalising a second master’s degree in human rights.
“I am passionate about working on disability inclusion programmes. Light for the World is a highly respected organisation dedicated to creating a world where individuals with eye conditions and disabilities can fully access their rights to health, education, employment, and protection during emergencies. This mission aligns perfectly with my career interests,” Richard says.
“I was particularly excited to learn that Light for the World embraces all disabilities. The focus on economic empowerment and the We Can Work programme especially caught my attention, as I firmly believe securing social and economic rights is a critical foundation for advancing other rights.”
Lucy Nyaga, International Director of Programmes at Light for the World, says: “We are thrilled to welcome Richard to Light for the World Kenya. His extensive experience and deep commitment to disability rights and inclusive development will prove invaluable in driving forward our goal to spark positive lasting change and create opportunities for people with disabilities in Kenya.
“I also want to say a big thank you to Daniel Oloo, who did a wonderful job as Interim Director of Light for the World Kenya for 17 months. Oloo will return to his position as Director of We Can Work, where he will play a key role in overseeing one of our most important projects.”
