National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK) Thursday distributed tools of trade and assistive devices worth Sh 1.9 million to 98 Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) in Makueni.
The organization head of advocacy and publicity Tabitha Mihari said the tools would empower PWDs economically through start-ups and micro enterprises to enhance self-reliance.
Some of the trade tools issued to beneficiaries included welding machines, hair salon kits, sewing machines, farm tools, masonry kits, knitting machines, barber tools, carpentry tools and wheel chairs.
Speaking at the County Commissioner’s office during the distribution exercise, Mihari said the equipment donated was part of a programme by NFDK that will see 3,000 PWDs receive support amounting to Sh59.9 million and 128 special needs learning institutions across the country receive grants to the tune of Sh35 million.
“In the Lower Eastern region, 280 PWDs will benefit from the programme at a cost of 5.9 million. The equipment for Machakos and Kitui counties will be issued from next week,” she said.
One of the beneficiaries of a sewing machine, Martha Nditika hailed the programme saying the machine will help her to start a business.
“I am a trained tailor and the machine will help me pay school fees for my children,” she said.
By Roselyne Kavoo
