The National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK) has embarked on the distribution of donations worth Sh12.5 million to support Persons with disability (PWDs) in the Nyanza region.
The exercise, which was launched in Kisumu, targets 384 people in Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, and Nyamira counties who successfully applied for support.
According to the Fund’s Trustee, Prof. Julia Ojiambo, the support, which includes cash donations, tools, equipment, and assistive devices, will go a long way in supporting the beneficiaries to empower themselves economically.
NFDK Trustee Prof. Julia Ojiambo and Kisumu Central Deputy County Commissioner William Bosek during the distribution of donations to PWDs in Kisumu County. Photo by Chris Mahandara.
She said NFDK only managed to allocate Sh60 million for the programme across the country this year, calling on the beneficiaries to make maximum use of the funds and equipment.
The Trustee said PWDs required a lot of support to better their lives, adding that out of the 10,000 applications received, the Fund could only support 3,000–4,000 cases.
Prof. Ojiambo said the fund, which generates income through rent from its buildings in Nairobi and support from the National government, was overwhelmed by the rising number of applications.
This, she said, called for more collaboration with other like-minded organisations to ensure that all the applicants receive support.
Among the items being distributed were sewing machines, washing machines, carpentry equipment, welding machines, wheel chairs, salon and barber shop kits, among others.
“What we are issuing is a complete kit. They can use it right away to open a salon or a small kiosk and start earning a living,” she said.
Speaking during the distribution exercise for Kisumu County at the New Nyanza Regional Headquarters Building, Prof. Ojiambo said the fund allocated Sh1.3 million in the area to benefit 35 people.
She said the fund would continue to support individuals and institutions for PWDs to ensure they have a conducive environment to lead normal lives.
Major Rtd. Marsden Madoka challenged families with PWDs to stop hiding them but bring them forth to benefit from various government programs.
“They are very bright and talented. All they need is our support to enable them to exploit their full potential,” he said.
His sentiments were echoed by Kisumu Central Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) William Bosek, who called for the inclusion of PWDs by giving them opportunities in the government and private sectors to realise their full potential.
“People Living with Disabilities account for 3 per cent of our population, and they are very bright people. If given the opportunity, they can also contribute to the betterment of society,” he said.
By Fleiss Akoko and Chris Mahandara