A senior veterinary doctor and law student has petitioned Parliament to recognise clinically diagnosed low libido in men and Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD) in women as disabilities under Kenya’s Constitution.
The petition, filed by Dr. Benson Kibore, was received by the Senate Office of the Clerk on July 15 and proposes significant legal and healthcare reforms aimed at improving access to treatment and reducing stigma surrounding sexual dysfunction.
Petition Seeks Legal Recognition
In the petition, Dr. Kibore argues that persistent low libido and HSDD are medically recognised conditions capable of causing serious psychological, emotional, relational and functional impairments.
He wants Parliament to acknowledge that individuals living with these conditions may require disability protections where medical evidence confirms the severity of the impairment.
“Establish that persistent Low Libido and HSDD are medical conditions capable of causing substantial psychological, emotional, relational and functional impairment, and therefore warrant legislative and policy consideration within Kenya’s health and disability framework,” part of the petition states.
Impact Beyond Physical Health
According to the petitioner, untreated sexual dysfunction extends beyond intimacy and can significantly reduce an individual’s quality of life.
He argues that the conditions may contribute to:
- Mental health challenges
- Emotional distress
- Reduced marital satisfaction
- Relationship breakdown
- Infidelity
- Family instability
- Emotional strain on children
- Behavioural changes within families
Dr. Kibore also notes that cultural beliefs and social stigma discourage many people from seeking professional medical care, leaving some to rely on unregulated sexual enhancement products instead.
Concerns Over Drug Misuse
The petition references concerns previously raised by the Ministry of Health regarding the growing misuse of erectile dysfunction medication, particularly among younger people.
The petitioner argues that improved access to diagnosis, counselling and treatment could help reduce self-medication and encourage patients to seek evidence-based healthcare.
Proposed Changes to Kenyan Laws
Dr. Kibore is asking Parliament to amend the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, so that qualifying sexual dysfunctions causing substantial and persistent impairment can be recognised under the law.
He is also seeking amendments to the Social Health Insurance Act to ensure the Social Health Authority (SHA) covers:
- Clinical assessment
- Medical diagnosis
- Psychological counselling
- Treatment and rehabilitation for qualifying sexual dysfunctions
In addition, the petition proposes that Parliament direct the Ministry of Health to:
- Develop national clinical guidelines for screening and treatment.
- Increase funding for research into sexual health disorders.
- Establish a National Sexual Health Policy to improve prevention, treatment and public awareness.
Parliament to Consider the Proposal
The petition now awaits consideration by Parliament, which will determine whether the proposed legal and policy reforms should move forward.
If adopted, the changes could expand access to healthcare services for people diagnosed with qualifying sexual dysfunctions while sparking wider public debate about how Kenya defines disability and addresses sexual health within its healthcare system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD)?
HSDD is a medically recognised condition characterised by a persistent lack of sexual desire that causes significant personal distress or interpersonal difficulties.
Does the petition automatically make low libido a disability?
No. The petition is only a proposal. Parliament must review and decide whether to amend existing laws.
What changes is the petitioner seeking?
The petition seeks legal recognition of qualifying sexual dysfunctions, SHA coverage for diagnosis and treatment, national clinical guidelines, increased research funding and the development of a National Sexual Health Policy.
Why is the petition significant?
If approved, it could influence Kenya’s disability laws, healthcare policy and access to treatment for individuals with medically diagnosed sexual dysfunctions while encouraging greater public awareness and reducing stigma.