Nandi County Government held a joint celebration to mark World Clubfoot day and International Albinism Awareness day with medical outreach, training and empowerment of caregivers.
The event, which took place at Kapsabet Bible College, brought together persons with disabilities (PWDs), individuals with albinism, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and county officials in a unified call for inclusion, health equity, and empowerment.
Leading the celebrations, Nandi Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Mitei reaffirmed the County’s unwavering commitment to advancing the rights, dignity, and welfare of vulnerable groups.
“These commemorations remind us of our shared responsibility to create a just and inclusive society. No one should be left behind in our development journey,” she said.
In the lead-up to the event, the Department of Culture, Gender and Social Welfare, in collaboration with local partners Warembo na Disability and Hope Beyond Limit, facilitated a two-day countywide training targeting PWDs and their caregivers from all six sub-counties.
The programme tackled thematic areas including disability mainstreaming, gender-based violence prevention, human reproductive health, human rights, nutrition, and practical skills such as beadwork.
The climax of the celebration featured a robust medical outreach initiative. Participants benefited from specialised services, including cancer screening for persons with albinism and a broad range of general medical services through a dedicated medical camp.
Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, prostheses, surgical boots, white canes, and clubfoot correction shoes were distributed to enhance mobility and independence for individuals in need.
The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Culture, Gender and Social Welfare praised the efforts, noting, “This initiative symbolises our collective effort to uplift and empower persons with disabilities and those living with albinism. It is a step towards a more inclusive and caring community.”
The celebrations were further bolstered by the active support of the County Assembly, civil society organisations, and healthcare providers, all united by a common vision of inclusivity and social justice.
As Nandi County continues to implement people-centred programmes, the administration emphasised its resolve to pursue sustainable interventions that remove barriers and promote full participation of marginalised groups in all aspects of county life.
According to records, the County has more than 20,000 PWDs, with relevant stakeholders calling upon the County administration to ensure all individuals Abled differently are identified and given the necessary support to enable them to live a dignified life.
By Linet Wafula
