Smile for Neurodiversity Organization in Africa has donated 100 assistive devices to persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Lugari’s Lumakanda Ward, Kakamega County.
The devices, which include wheelchairs, walking frames, and tricycles, were donated through the organization by Mary Wanganga Partners for Care.
They were presented to the beneficiaries by the organization’s founder, Carol Joseph’s Emoyo, during the end of Lumakanda Festival season two.
Emoyo said the donation is part of the organization’s mission to ensure that PWDs are mobile and independent. She urged the beneficiaries to use the devices to improve their mobility and quality of life.
“We want them to be able to move from one place to another. For instance, when one has a tricycle, he or she is going to be mobile and independent because that person will be able to start a small business like hawking,” she said.
Emoyo also appealed to PWDs to shun stigma and accept their condition. She said that PWDs are special in their own way and should be loved and supported.
“It is a tough journey. Despite the stigma, we have to stand tall to overcome it. Once you live in denial, you are finished. If you don’t accept your situation and love yourself, just know that no one will love you,” she said.
Lumakanda Ward Representative Bernard Bokanda also urged parents not to hide children born with disabilities at home. He said that all children, regardless of their condition, deserve to be loved and supported.
“Parents should not fall prey to stigmatization and hide children born with disabilities at home as they are gifted differently despite their condition and all they need is support,” he said.
Lugari Sub County PWD coordinator Emmanuel Nyongesa lauded the organization for the donation. He said that the devices would help PWDs to be more independent and productive.
“If you give us such support, we shall stop begging as we shall be able to move around and engage in small business activities,” he said.
Metrine Nyongesa, a beneficiary of a walking frame, thanked the ward representative and the organization for coming to her rescue. She said that the mobility devices would now enable her to carry out her daily chores with ease.
Ruth Mutakale, who developed a visual disability in 2017, urged the ward representative to create a special fund that would assist the disabled to start businesses and be independent. She said that she was able to go to school and become a teacher thanks to the support of her family.
“Despite my father also being disabled, he never neglected me at home. He has given me a chance to go to school and soon I will graduate, get a job, and be independent despite my condition,” she said.
The donation of assistive devices to PWDs is a significant step towards ensuring that they have the same opportunities as everyone else. It is a reminder that PWDs are an important part of our society and should be treated with dignity and respect.
SOURCE: KENYA NEWS AGENCY