Two hundred physically challenged people in Migori County received free wheelchairs during the marking of the International Wheelchair Day in Kehancha town.
The event graced by the Principal Secretary for Social Protection and Senior Citizens Joseph Motari saw all assessed People with Disability (PWDs) in Migori county receiving modern wheelchairs that could navigate the rugged terrain.
The wheelchair donation was aided by the Association for the Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK) and Kenya Mobility through the State Department of Social Protection and Senior Citizens.
Motari noted that the modern wheelchairs would aid the easy movement of the PWDs in the county who were mostly living in rural setups with poor road access.
The PS said that the wheelchairs would be a game changer for disabled people as the previous wheelchairs limited them, and they could only use them on specific grounds.
However, the PS urged the people to ensure that they take good care of their wheelchairs and not to sell them as that has been the norm when they hand the wheelchairs to PWDs.
“Please ensure you take good care of what you now own and do not sell them because there is nowhere you will get another one if you fail to protect the one you have,” he said.
In addition, Motari said that disability is not a liability, therefore, the disabled should not be treated like lesser people in society.
He however encouraged parents and all at large to ensure that they do not hide the physically challenged children but rather allow them to have access to all the necessities they needed and get to interact with the outside world.
“It has come to my attention that some children are kept in their houses by their parents because of shame. If you know anyone or you have any disabled person at home, please register them in schools so that they may learn,” said the PS.
He cautioned the community from harassing PWDs and encouraged equality and fair treatment for all positive social development.
“I have seen how the disabled are being mishandled and heard of cases where people take advantage of the physically challenged and even rape them. I would like to warn everyone to refrain from such behaviour or they will have to deal with the law,” the PS noted.
He encouraged parents to register their children with the department to get the disabilities’ fund which could help them in paying school fees or even getting their basic needs.
Motari said that they are looking forward to giving wheelchairs to all people with disabilities in different parts of the country, with assistance from the Office of the President.
By Janemolly Achieng and Marion Obuya
