Persons with Disabilities (PWD) in Busia County have received empowerment equipment worth Sh.2.8 million from the National Fund for the Disabled in Kenya (NFDK).
Speaking in Busia, Prof. Julia Ojiambo, a trustee of the fund, stated that the national government will continue supporting persons with disabilities despite the tough economic times.
“The national government is here to support you in any way you need provided you or your caregivers send your requisitions,” she said.
Ojiambo encouraged the community to register with the social services offices and the commissioner’s office, their friends, or relatives who were physically challenged and required equipment.
“If you are a disabled person, kindly feel free to register them so that they can be empowered financially to stand on their own either directly or indirectly,” she said.
Deputy County Commissioner Kipchumba Ruto cautioned persons with disabilities and their caregivers against using the equipment for unintended purposes.
“Kindly for everyone who has received the equipment, diligently use them. Let not the national government empower you and you decide to misuse the equipment by selling them,” noted Ruto.
Ojiambo also encouraged Persons With Disabilities who applied for the equipment and did not get shortlisted as beneficiaries for this round not to lose hope as the fund still has their details and they would be considered for the next round.
Irene Virungi, one of the beneficiaries who received a full salon kit, expressed her gratitude to the national government for answering her requests.
“I thank the national government for honoring their promise and giving us this equipment. Now we shall be financially empowered and be able to provide for our needs without stressing other people,” she said.
The beneficiaries received salon kits, barbershop kits, farm equipment, and wheelchairs amounting to Sh2.8million.