NAIROBI– Disability rights advocate and public servant Harun Maalim Hassan has launched his latest book, Beyond the Horizon, in an event held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC) in Nairobi on Friday evening.
The launch brought together senior government officials, disability rights advocates, political leaders and members of the public who gathered to celebrate Harun’s life story and his contribution to disability inclusion in Kenya.
Speaking during the event, Harun urged Kenyans to embrace diversity and inclusion, noting that societies thrive when people of different abilities are given equal opportunities to participate and contribute.
He also paid tribute to his mother, crediting her unwavering support and guidance for shaping his character and determination.
“My mother taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. Those lessons have guided me throughout my life,” he said.
Harun recounted his journey in public service, revealing that he began his career as a District Officer before venturing into politics, where he unsuccessfully contested for the Mandera West parliamentary seat.
Public Service Commissioner Mr Harun Maalim Hassan OGW, speaking at the launch his second book Beyond the Horizon in an event held at KICC, Nairobi.
He said a tragic incident later changed the course of his life after he sustained severe injuries from an explosion near Rhamu while travelling back to Nairobi.
The incident left him with a disability but also inspired him to dedicate his life to advocating for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Despite the challenges, Harun said he chose resilience and service, becoming one of the leading voices championing disability rights, particularly in northern Kenya.
Wajir Governor Ahmed Abdullahi, who was among the speakers at the event, praised Harun’s commitment to promoting the interests of persons with disabilities.
“He has consistently championed disability inclusion and advocated for the representation of persons with disabilities in leadership and decision-making positions,” said the governor.
Ahmed noted that the tragedy Harun experienced became a catalyst for a broader mission of transforming lives and advocating for vulnerable members of society.
He also called for increased investment in accessibility, education and economic empowerment programmes for persons with disabilities across northern Kenya.
The governor congratulated Harun on the publication of Beyond the Horizon and expressed confidence that he would continue contributing to public discourse through his writing and advocacy.
Several speakers described Harun as an inspiration whose story demonstrates the power of perseverance and determination in overcoming adversity.
Among those who attended the event were Garissa Woman Representative Amina Udgoon Siyad, Nominated MP Sulekha Hulbale, former Mandera Senator Billow Kerrow, Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura, Kenya Revenue Authority General Manager Adan Mohamed, the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Deputy Clerk of the Senate, representatives from the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, commissioners from the Public Service Commission, Members of Parliament, disability rights advocates and other distinguished guests.
The launch concluded with calls for stronger support for persons with disabilities and renewed commitments to building a more inclusive society where all citizens can realise their full potential.
Beyond the Horizon chronicles Harun’s personal journey of resilience, public service and advocacy, offering lessons on perseverance, leadership and inclusion.
