The Kenya Reinsurance Corporation (Kenya Re) in partnership with the Association of Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK) donated assistive devices to Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nandi through the Niko Fiti Program.
The function held at the Kapsabet County Referral Hospital saw over two hundred devices including wheelchairs, walkers, artificial limbs, crutches and canes given out.
Speaking during the event, Nandi Governor Stephen Sang said that reaching out to persons with disabilities has been one of the agenda of the County Government.
“We want to thank Kenya Re together with the APDK for the partnership, we’ve had to ensure that we reach more persons with disabilities in Nandi, dignify and give them assistive devices,” stated Sang.
He also urged Persons with disabilities who are not registered to come out and be registered under Social Welfare so that proper resources are accorded to them.
According to the County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Tourism, Culture and Social Welfare Wilson Taiy, Nandi County has an estimation of about 20,000 disabled people out of which 5,000 people have come out to publicly speak about their disabilities.
“Due to stigmatization and socio-cultural implications and sensitivity of the disability people have, they fear coming out and speaking about their condition,” said Taiy.
He also stated that the County Government of Nandi has given out over 1,000 devices across the County during the previous and the current financial year.
Niko Fiti Campaign Program Manager Sylvia Kariuki, said the Program was started in the year 2011 after the report from the National Disability survey showed the disability rate was at 4%, therefore there was much more needed attention on disability.
“As we celebrate 10 years of better mobility and accessibility for PWDs, Nandi County becomes one of the beneficiaries of our CSR, (Niko Fiti) program to receive assistive devices,” noted Kariuki.
She further added that since they started the program, they have covered 25 Counties and have donated over 8,000 assistive devices and further looking forward to reach the 10,000 mark at the end of the year.
Nominated Member of the County Assembly (MCA) representing people with disabilities in Nandi Rose Chesang said she’s happy for the assistance they received as these will help them feel appreciated and loved in the society.
By Benard Tanui
