Kenya National Library Services (KNLS) Embu Branch has partnered with the visually impaired community in the County to equip them with digitals skills geared towards self-reliance.
The Library has been giving them free basic computer skills and use of smart gadgets such as phones to enable them easily get government services from the comfort of their homes.
According to Principal Librarian Jane Rose Mukami, the digital training is also geared towards exposing them to the world of online jobs where they would be able to earn a living and not rely on others for their upkeep.
“Our computers are installed with user friendly software such as Jaws and SuperNova to assist them acquire digital skills that they can not only use to get government services but also online jobs,” she said.
She said some of the lessons they have offered them include typing, sending mails and internet browsing skills.
The Librarian said the world was going digital and there was a need to equip the visually impaired persons with requisite skills that would impact their lives both socially and economically.
“We have also been doing Ajira Trainings in partnership with the Ministry of ICT and we also intend to assist them secure the available online jobs,” she said.
She added that the group has been able to register a self-help group with the Department of Social Services that will also go a long way in promoting inclusive development and champion for their rights.
The group, Embu Library Union for Visually Impaired Persons, coordinator Martin Nyaga said embracing technology would equip them with the tools they needed in the changing world of digital.
“We want our members to be empowered so that they can stand on their own without having to beg for handouts,” he said.
The members were also assisted with white canes by Charity organization, Visual Pigmentosa Aids Initiative Kenya, to help them safely navigate their surroundings.
Organization founder Raphael Mworia said his mission was to eradicate poverty in the society caused by sight loss by tailor-making startups that could enable the visually impaired to earn their day to day living.
By Samuel Waititu
