More than 500 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Nakuru County received supportive devices in a major relief initiative aimed at enhancing their mobility and independence.
The mobility aids were donated by Through The Roof, a UK-based Christian disability charity, in partnership with Dr. Bishop David Gatua of Abundant Hope of Glory Church, Elburgon.
Beneficiaries who have spent years struggling to move unaided described the initiative as a life-changing intervention.
Speaking during the launch at Elburgon, Bishop Dr. David Gatua noted that the initiative emerged after congregants reported cases of isolation, with children living with disabilities being denied access to education due to stigma and lack of mobility support.
“This foundation was created to restore dignity and confidence among PWDs. Previously, children with disabilities were often locked in homes while parents went about daily duties. Through support from donors and people of goodwill, we are enabling them to regain independence,” Bishop Gatua said.
Nominated MP Harold Kipchumba Kimuge urged both national and county governments to ensure public buildings comply with structural policies that make them accessible to PWDs.
He highlighted that empowerment of PWDs is only possible through such supportive measures that give them hope and ability to advocate for their rights.
“We face hardships accessing offices, schools, and roads that are non-compliant. This raises the question: where do over one million PWDs in the country go?” Kimuge remarked.
The legislator also called for zero taxation on donations from overseas, noting that heavy taxes discourage generous donors willing to support PWD initiatives. “I appeal to the President to exempt donations for PWDs from taxation. Many live in deplorable conditions and rely on such support,” he added.
The sentiment was echoed by Nakuru County Deputy Governor David Kones, who attended the event as chief guest. He urged elected leaders to prioritize PWDs in social and economic programmes to uplift them from stigma and economic challenges.
“You have not only provided mobility but also restored dignity and independence,” Kones said.
Under Governor Susan Kihika’s leadership, the County has allocated Sh27.5 million to the Persons with Disabilities Fund, with a significant portion dedicated to assistive devices, including hearing aids and mobility devices.
Kones emphasised that Nakuru County is committed to ensuring PWDs are not left behind in the county’s development agenda.
“The administration has put structures in place through the Department of Social Services to prioritize PWDs in bursaries, employment, tenders, and empowerment programmes, focusing on uplifting this vulnerable group,” he added.
Nakuru Women Representative Liza Chelule praised partnerships between the county government and local and international well-wishers for transforming the lives of PWDs. She urged that such collaborations be fully supported and institutionalised.
Chelule also emphasised the importance of maternal health, urging expectant mothers to seek regular medical check-ups to detect and manage conditions that may lead to disabilities, including preventable diseases such as polio.
“Early intervention and regular medical attention can help reduce the incidence of disabilities among children,” Chelule said.
Currently, only 25 per cent of PWDs in Kenya have access to assistive devices, with the majority residing in urban areas. Initiatives such as the distribution in Nakuru County aim to bridge this gap and improve quality of life for persons living with disabilities.
By Absalom Namwalo
