Eighteen People with Disabilities (PWDs) in Wote/Nziu Ward, Makueni Subcounty, have received wheelchairs from the Makueni County Government through the Department of Gender.
Speaking during the distribution exercise at Green Park in Wote Town on Wednesday, Disability Mainstreaming Officer (DMO) Mr Abednego Mutunga Kitheka said the assistive devices would enhance mobility, independence, and confidence among the beneficiaries.
“The assistive devices will improve mobility and independence. They will change lives and enable the beneficiaries to live comfortably and confidently,” said Kitheka.
He further revealed that an additional ten beneficiaries also received diapers from the department.
The DMO encouraged PWDs to form organised groups to access various government and donor funds available in the area. He disclosed that the county government has set aside Sh500,000 for PWD groups to help them initiate income-generating projects aimed at uplifting their livelihoods.
“There is a need for people living with disabilities to form groups to access government and donor funding. Such resources can significantly improve their living standards and reduce poverty,” he emphasised.
Kitheka also urged the county government to equip PWDs with skills and development programmes to enable them to become economically independent despite their physical challenges.
By Joseph Kisui and Mary Mutuku
