People Living With Disabilities in Eastern Region Receive Sh20 Million Support Package

By BRIAN MUSYOKA 

The support package comprises a wide range of income-generating tools, including agricultural equipment, carpentry and welding kits, sewing and knitting machines, as well as barber and salon equipment. The initiative is intended to help beneficiaries establish sustainable livelihoods and improve their economic independence.

Speaking during the flagging-off ceremony held at the Eastern Regional Headquarters in Embu Town, NFDK Trustee David Musila said the programme is aimed at empowering persons living with disabilities and enabling them to participate actively in economic activities.

Musila noted that apart from the tools of trade, the fund also allocated Sh4 million to special schools catering for learners with disabilities. A total of 20 schools received Sh200,000 each to support infrastructure development and improve learning conditions.

He emphasized that the assistance was designed to transform the lives of beneficiaries and urged recipients to use the resources responsibly to maximize their impact.

According to Musila, the donated equipment should serve as a foundation for self-employment and income generation, helping beneficiaries improve their standards of living and reduce dependency.

He further cautioned beneficiaries against selling or misusing the equipment, saying such actions would defeat the purpose of the programme, which seeks to uplift the welfare of persons living with disabilities.

Eastern Regional Commissioner Jacob Ouma praised the initiative, describing it as a major step toward promoting self-reliance among persons living with disabilities, many of whom often depend on relatives and caregivers for support.

Ouma also appealed to parents and guardians of children living with disabilities to enroll them in appropriate learning institutions instead of hiding them at home, arguing that education and social inclusion are essential in restoring dignity and hope.

At the same event, the Regional Commissioner urged Kenyans exercising their right to demonstrate to do so peacefully and avoid acts that may result in destruction of property or disruption of businesses.

He observed that when protests become violent, persons living with disabilities are among the most affected due to existing physical, structural and economic challenges that make them more vulnerable.

Beneficiaries welcomed the support, saying it would significantly improve their livelihoods. Among them was visually impaired beneficiary Ephantus Munene, who received a welding kit and described it as a life-changing opportunity. He said the equipment would help him earn a living, provide for his family and challenge the misconception that persons living with disabilities are a burden to society.