The National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) has issued grants worth Sh. 600,000 to six self-help groups belonging to people living with disabilities in Narok County.
Speaking while issuing the cheques to the groups in his office on Wednesday, Narok County Commissioner Mr. Samuel Kimiti advised the six groups to use the money wisely, so that it may help them raise their standards of living in the wake of the Coronavirus pandemic in the country.
He urged the groups which received Sh.100,000 each not to sub divide the money amongst themselves but to rather properly invest the money into profitable businesses that will enable them to reap maximum returns and be able to improve their lives.
The commissioner also warned the groups against misusing the money for unintended purposes other than that which it was applied for. He said that once in a while the government usually inspects the various projects to see the progress and for purposes of accountability.
“When you misuse the money, it is taken in as corruption and one is likely to be arrested and arraigned in court,” he added.
Kimiti further advised the groups against squabbling amongst themselves because of the issued grants, but instead solve any emerging issues amicably. He said he has witnessed the downfall of quite a number of groups that started off well and ended up in discord.
Narok County Disability Services Officer Julius Ntaiya, added that they had also issued a few cheques to various vulnerable students for their school fees in 2021 when schools will be reopened.
He also said that the issuance of cheques was done in accordance to the number of sub counties within Narok County in order to ensure each sub-county benefits.
Ann Rati, a beneficiary of the grant thanked the National Council of Persons with Disabilities’ office for their faithfulness in delivering the grant.
She said that since they wrote their proposals, they had been waiting for the money patiently so that they can use it to start various businesses.
James Kitelu who hails from Transmara West and representing Emarti Disability Group promised that even as they face the global Coronavirus pandemic, they will strive to put the money into good use.
“We hope that the grant will not only help us but also help our families in the near future,” he added.
By Mabel Keya-Shikuku
