People Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) from Kiambu East region have benefitted from walking aids and empowerment tools valued at Sh650, 000 from the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK).
The over 30 persons from Thika, Gatundu North and Gatundu South, Juja and Ruiru sub-counties were given wheelchairs, sewing machines, welding and masonry tool and farm equipment to enable them earn income.
NFDK Chair Prof. Julia Odhiambo said PLWDs have suffered a lot during this Covid-19 period and need empowerment to enable them to get out of the challenges.
She called on them to ensure that they are registered in groups so as to benefit from government programmes and funds. She at the same time called on parents who have children living with disabilities to come out and seek help from government agencies.
“It is a concern that some parents are still hiding their children who have disabilities. It is important for them to come out and ensure they join groups so that they get supported by government programmes and empowerment funds,” she added.
Prof Odhiambo said the national government has also disbursed Sh300, 000 grants to special schools who have applied for the grants and encouraged more schools to apply.
In Thika, the funds have been disbursed to Joy Town Primary, Maria Magdalena School for mentally handicapped and secondary school and Thika School for the Blind among others.
Rebecca Kananu, one of the beneficiaries of a sewing machine said it would enable her to kick-start her tailoring career she has been studying for and make a living.
“It’s like a dream come true as a tailor as the sewing machine that I have been given would see me through my journey since I was not able to afford one,” Rebecca said.
Thika Deputy County Commissioner Mbogo Mathioya cautioned the beneficiaries against selling their equipment, saying they would carry regular inspections to ensure they were using them as expected.
By Lucy Lumumba and Muoki Charles
