Meru County People with Disabilities (PWDs) chairman, Mike Makarina has lauded the devolved unit for putting their interests at the forefront in terms of economic and social empowerment.
Addressing journalists after meeting PWDs in Buuri East sub-County, Makarina said unlike in the past, they were now feeling appreciated by the current government, a move that has boosted their morale in their day-to-day activities.
On economic empowerment, Makarina said the county government has already released Sh10 million which will be lent out to members across the county at low-interest rates in line with the devolved government’s promise to empower them.
“We don’t need sympathy, but empowerment so that we can become economically independent. Therefore, we are grateful to the county government for its intervention and promise to use this money diligently to change our lives,” he said.
The government has also promised to continually increase the fund in future to ensure the PWDs are able to acquire a steady flow of income for their ventures and contribute meaningfully to the dream of making Meru great.
The county government, under Governor Kiraitu Murungi has also issued various support items to PWDs including white cane for the blind, health access cards so that they can receive services free of charge.
This is in line with the government’s commitment to support, protect and empower PWDs so that they can continue to be key participants in the county’s development agenda.
Makarina said the government has also promised to continue creating policies, structures and systems aimed at uplifting their livelihoods.
Equally the government has been encouraging PWDs to vie for various elective positions so as enhance their political representation, added the chairman.
By Dickson Mwiti
