By B, KNA
Persons living with disabilities (PLWDs) in Siaya County have received assistive and trade equipment worth Sh1.8 million from the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK).
The distribution exercise, which benefited 43 individuals from four sub-counties, saw recipients receive crutches, welding machines, sewing machines, car wash machines, and farming tools. Beneficiaries included 11 from Bondo, 12 from Ugunja, 10 from Alego Usonga, and 10 from Gem.
Speaking at the Bondo Sub- County headquarters, NFDK officer Mr Silas Mukeu said the donations were aimed at improving the beneficiaries’ livelihoods both socially and economically.
“We began the distribution exercise yesterday in Ugunja and Alego Usonga sub-counties, and today we are in Gem and Bondo. In Bondo alone, there were 50 applicants, while nationally the Fund received over 9,000 applications. Due to budget constraints, we were only able to support 3,000 beneficiaries this year,” explained Mukeu.
The event was graced by Bondo Deputy County Commissioner, Mr Alfred Manduku, who urged families to stop hiding people with disabilities, stressing that they should be allowed to enjoy their rights as equal citizens. He further warned beneficiaries against selling the donated items, noting that doing so amounts to a criminal offence.
Bondo Sub- County Disability Secretary, Mr. Peter Aduogo, reassured those who missed out that they had not been neglected. He raised concern over cases where dishonest individuals collect items meant for PLWDs and later sell them without the intended beneficiaries’ knowledge.
One of the beneficiaries, Ms. Jesicah Anyango from Sakwa South, expressed gratitude after receiving hairdressing equipment. She said the support would enable her to start a business, generate income, and improve her living standards.
The donation, officials said, is part of NFDK’s broader effort to empower persons with disabilities across the country through provision of equipment that promotes self-reliance and economic independence.
