Principal Secretary of the State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizens Affairs, Joseph Motari, has announced that the government will commence monthly cash stipends of Sh2,000 to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) starting this month. The initiative aims to enable them to lead decent lives. President William Ruto instructed Motari to begin the disbursement this week, focusing on those with severe disabilities.
“PWDs will be receiving a monthly upkeep similar to that of the cash transfer program for the elderly. I’m under instruction to ensure their stipends are paid before those of other employees are paid. We have their database,” said the PS.
Speaking at an event in Thika, where over 300 PWDs received wheelchairs and foodstuffs from the Hope Mobility NGO, the PS mentioned that they possess a comprehensive database of PWDs, facilitating the smooth distribution of funds alongside the ongoing cash transfer program for the elderly.
The PS emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritize PWDs’ stipends, ensuring they are paid before other employees. This support is intended to cushion beneficiary households from the adverse effects of disability. Motari urged parents who are still concealing their disabled children to come forward and seek assistance.
“Parents are still hiding children who have disabilities making them miss out on government empowerment programs. We are set to launch a massive enrollment program in the grassroots of all PWDs to rope everyone in,” Motari said.
He further revealed plans for a massive grassroots identification program to encompass all PWDs and the elderly, leaving no one behind in the initiative.
Thika MP, Alice Ng’ang’a, praised the monthly upkeep and the government’s gesture towards empowering the disadvantaged, hoping it will alleviate their suffering. She called for tax exemptions for goods and equipment meant for the disabled, urging the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) to release containers held at the port due to tax issues.
Beneficiaries, including Mercy Muthoni and Susan Wanjiru, expressed gratitude to the government for the monthly stipend, emphasizing its positive impact in easing their poverty-related struggles. They also welcomed the provision of foodstuffs and mobility devices, recognizing the substantial difference it will make in their lives.