Persons living with disabilities in Bureti sub-county in Kericho have a reason to smile after the government through the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK) presented them with Equipment worth over Sh200, 000.
The assortment of Equipment presented to 11 beneficiaries included barber tool kits, sewing machines, welding tool kits, wheelchairs, tricycles, white canes and salon kits.
Speaking to KNA during the presentation of the tools at the Bureti sub-county headquarters’ grounds, an officer from NFDK in charge of the distribution of the vocational skill trade tools Mr. Isaac Aliya said the organization had disbursed Sh225, 115 worth of Equipment to PLWDs in the sub-county in the current financial year.
He urged those living with disabilities in the area to apply for assistance from the organization in order to access government empowerment funding and improve their livelihoods.
Alia appealed to parents and caregivers of children with disabilities not to hide them for fear of stigma but to expose them to learning environments where they can be equipped with skills for them to be self-reliant and productive in society.
Present also at the event was the area Deputy County Commissioner Lawrence Omondi who urged the beneficiaries to ensure they use their tools of trade for their intended purpose so that the purpose of improving their lives is achieved.
“The tools of trade are intended to empower persons living with disabilities with a vision that they are able to earn a source of income and improve their livelihoods and contribute positively to nation building,” said Omondi.
An elated caregiver Mama Lucy Langat from Roret area within Bureti sub-county lauded the group for the timely donation which she said will assist her visually impaired son Timothy Korir establish his welding business and become independent.
“I thank the organization for their timely assistance, my son who is blind was able to learn a vocational skill at Oyugis Vocational Training School and I am happy that he will now be able to start his own business and earn a living,” said Mama Langat.
By Sarah Njagi
