A group of people with disabilities (PWDs) from Murang’a South Sub-County have received working tools and equipment worth Sh420,000 from the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK), in a move aimed at enhancing their self-reliance and economic empowerment.
The beneficiaries, drawn from various wards within the sub-county, were equipped with welding machines, farming tools, sewing and salon kits, barber equipment, and water pumps—each selected to match their existing skills and livelihood needs.
The initiative marks a significant shift from welfare-based aid to targeted empowerment, allowing recipients to generate sustainable income and live independently.
Speaking during the distribution event held at the Murang’a South Sub-County headquarters in Kenol, Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Patrick Kibera emphasized that the support should be viewed as an investment in productivity, not charity.
“Please don’t sell or store these items in your homes. Use them to earn a living and become self-reliant. This is an opportunity to transform your lives and those around you,” said Kibera.
He added that empowering PWDs economically would build a more inclusive and equitable society where no one is left behind.
NFDK representative Judy Njeri echoed the message, urging the beneficiaries to make meaningful use of the opportunity.
“Our job as NFDK is to empower PWDs. You don’t have to keep begging for help when you can use these tools to build your future,” she said. “We support your dreams in line with your skills because when you succeed, the entire community benefits.”
One of the beneficiaries, Bedan Karanja, who is physically challenged, received a complete barber kit and described the donation as life-changing.
“Before, I worked for someone else and earned too little to support myself. Now, I can open my own barber shop and stop depending on my parents,” said Karanja.
Another beneficiary, David Kamau, who received a set of farming tools including a wheelbarrow, spray pump, and water pipe, expressed gratitude, noting the equipment would help him farm more efficiently.
“I can now take care of my family, pay school fees for my children, and even sell surplus produce for extra income,” he said. “I love farming, and despite my condition, I can now work and live with dignity.”
The event also recognized caregivers, including Julia Wangechi, a mother caring for her differently-abled son. She received a goat to help improve her child’s diet.
“Doctors recommended milk for his health, but it was too expensive to buy. Now we’ll have milk for him, and I can sell the extra to support my family,” she said tearfully.
The beneficiaries pledged to use the equipment responsibly and encourage others with disabilities to pursue similar empowerment opportunities.
Murang’a South Social Services Officer Ruth Gichuki commended NFDK’s efforts but raised concern over limited access to PWD assessment services.
She noted that certification, which is required to access government benefits, is only available at Murang’a Level 5 Hospital.
“It’s hard for many PWDs to travel that far, so some wait up to four months for an appointment,” said Gichuki, appealing to the area MP to push for decentralization of assessment services to sub-county hospitals.
By Florence Kinyua and Shem Kithinji
