How Deaf plumber uses his job to fight stigma against persons with disabilities

Wilson Wanjohi Njuguna, a Deaf plumber, says pursuing a plumbing course was the best decision he ever made.

Before getting into plumbing, Wanjohi says he used to work in flower farms in Naivasha doing menial jobs before joining the school.

“I joined Mirera Technical and Vocational Training Institute in 2022, unsure of what was in store for me. After completion in 2024, a friend linked me up with a training opportunity in a leading energy-producing company,” Wanjohi explains.

The 32-year-old explains that a friend had seen a training opportunity at KENGEN, which he was linked to. Wanjohi then underwent training, which later led to his full-time absorption in the company as a plumber in September.

“I’ve had an easy time in the company. From the onset, I found an interpreter who made communication easy with colleagues. There are also other Deaf colleagues, hence no significant challenge at work,” says Wanjohi.

As a plumber, Wanjohi also has the opportunity to work with households in his neighbourhood.

This, he believes, has helped change the mind set of many people about individuals with disabilities, particularly challenging the misconception of their fragility and supposed inability to 'fit' into the norm.

“We are just as capable as anyone else. We can do everything that others can do, and people should not doubt us,” Wanjohi says.

He further emphasizes that being Deaf doesn't limit his abilities, and encourages others to recognize the potential in people with disabilities.

A third born in a family of four, Wanjohi says, as the only Deaf child, he has made it his mission to teach his family sign language to communicate with him.

“My parents have still not mastered sign language, but they know some signs we use to communicate. My siblings also understand a bit, so we mostly resort to writing. However, my sister is very supportive and seems to catch on very quickly. It makes me happy to have a family member who is truly interested in learning my language,” says Wanjohi, his eyes lighting up.

Asked what he enjoys most about his work, Wanjohi says getting the opportunity to work has made life easier.

Speaking to Mtaa Wangu, James Alex Nyandigisi, a geo-scientist at KENGEN, says the company has implemented a program encouraging people with disabilities (PWDs) to apply for opportunities.

“PWDs are given priority in the hiring process. The company has also renovated the buildings around to enhance their accessibility,” Nyandigisi notes.