Marakwet west: Twenty individuals with disabilities in Marakwet West have received life-changing support from the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK) in the form of assistive devices, tools of trade, and livestock support.
According to Kenya News Agency, the presentation, held on Friday, saw 11 beneficiaries each receive a cheque worth Ksh 20,000 for livestock purchases, while the rest were equipped with assistive devices and trade tools such as hair salon kits, tailoring machines, and mobility aids. NFDK Programmes Officer Amos Okeyo clarified that the cheques for livestock support were not given directly to the beneficiaries. Instead, they were issued under the name of the Deputy County Commissioner (DCC), who will work in coordination with the Department of Livestock to procure viable animals.
Okeyo emphasized the importance of ensuring the long-term benefits of the received items, urging recipients not to sell them but to use them to enhance their livelihoods. 'NFDK is here to empower you. We want to see you grow economically and become self-reliant. Take care of what you've been given and use it well,' he added.
He also encouraged the formation of an umbrella association for persons with disabilities in Marakwet West, highlighting the absence of a formal group in the sub-county. 'Forming a group will help you speak with one voice, access training opportunities, and lobby for more support. Also, spread the word about the fund and encourage others to apply,' he urged.
Additionally, Okeyo stressed the importance of acquiring a disability card, noting its role in accessing various services. 'It's a key document that opens doors to many services. I encourage all persons with disabilities to get one,' he said.
Assistant County Commissioner Jumbale Chibanza, who presided over the event, expressed gratitude to the beneficiaries for applying for the support. 'Many people don't come forward to seek help. I want to thank you for showing up and taking this bold step,' said Chibanza. He reminded the recipients that the government is committed to supporting the empowerment of persons with disabilities, urging them to use the items to generate income.
One of the beneficiaries, Tecla Jepchumba, who received a hair salon kit, expressed her gratitude to NFDK and shared her plans to utilize the support effectively. 'I am thankful for this support. I plan to put it to good use and will encourage others to apply so that they, too, can benefit,' she said.
Okeyo concluded by appreciating the efforts of the local administration in mobilizing applications and forwarding them to NFDK for processing. He urged more persons with disabilities in Marakwet West to apply, as many have not yet taken advantage of the opportunities available through the fund.