By Emily Kadzo/Lauryn Njambi (KNA)
In a commendable effort to support and empower individuals with disabilities, the national government, in collaboration with the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK), has distributed 47 empowerment tools at the Molo DCC headquarters.
These tools which were distributed on Friday, are part of an initiative to promote self-reliance among individuals with disabilities and include an assortment of equipment for various trades such as wheelbarrows, tailoring machines, hairdryers, farming tools, and welding machines.
Molo Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Ngura Mwamachi, expressed deep gratitude to the NFDK and the national government for the significant endeavor.
He noted, “I thank the NFDK for providing these empowerment tools, which will greatly benefit people with disabilities. The government remains committed to distributing a variety of equipment to aid disabled individuals.”
Addressing the beneficiaries, NFDK representative, Isaac Aliyah shared vital information regarding the advantages of holding a disability identity card.
He pointed out that the County government of Nakuru had established a special school in Njoro, offering educational opportunities for students with disabilities.
Furthermore, possessing a disability identity card will make it possible for tax exemptions, facilitate access to bursaries, and even open doors to tender opportunities.
Aliyah also highlighted the concern of the relatively low turnout of individuals with disabilities at the event, suggesting that many might not be aware of the opportunities available to them.
“We have a significant number of people with disabilities in our region, but only a few have shown up today, possibly due to a lack of awareness regarding these initiatives,” he stated.
In addition to the individual donations program, the NFDK provides grants to institutions for persons with disabilities nationwide, enabling learners to access education.
In Nakuru County, the NFDK has extended support to institutions such as the Njoro Special School, with a flagship program aimed at improving the educational landscape for individuals with disabilities.
The distribution of these empowerment tools and the broader initiatives signify the commitment of the national government and the NFDK to create a more inclusive and supportive society for people with disabilities, fostering self-reliance and equal opportunities.