More than 70 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Githunguri, Kiambu County have a reason to smile after a well-wisher donated walking and hearing aids to empower and give them independence.
The persons, some who have been bedridden for years received wheelchairs, crutches, hearing aids and calipers.
They could not hide their joy as Thika MP Patrick Wainaina distributed the equipment to them saying they will no longer be holed up idle inside their houses due to lack movement support devices.
Led by Peter Matheri and Jane Wanjiru, the beneficiaries said sometimes they had felt depressed and frustrated having been forced to stay indoors especially during this cold weather.
“We have been neglected and left in the houses and it has been more challenging during this cold weather. At least with the moving aids, we can move around, interact and establish some businesses to gain independence,” said Wanjiru.
The MP said depression among PWDs needs to be addressed through offering them counseling and funds to start up income generating activities to keep them busy and help them earn a living.
Speaking after training them alongside their caretakers on first aid and basic healthcare, the MP decried that most families hide their disabled relatives, thus denying them the opportunity to realize their potential through socio-economic integration.
He underscored the need to support these groups saying they have unmatched talents that if nurtured can get them out of poverty.
“Their talents especially in art are immense and if nurtured, they can gain financial independence. The society should stop looking down upon them and offer them economic platforms to thrive,” Wainaina said.
The MP emphasized on the need to establish institutions to train all disabled persons on different practical works such as sewing, salon works, and farming to enable them start sustainable income-generating activities.
By Muoki Charles
