Nairobi: People with disabilities in Rachuonyo South Sub-county have received equipment for business start-ups from the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK). The equipment, valued at Sh750,000, was distributed to 24 individuals and included items such as barber toolkits, battery chargers, carpentry toolkits, farming tools, hair salon tools, knitting and sewing machines, leatherwork toolkits, welding toolkits, and wheelchairs.
According to Kenya News Agency, NFDK Programme Committee Chairperson, Prof. Julia Ojiambo, presented the equipment to the beneficiaries at the Deputy County Commissioner’s compound in Kosele. Prof. Ojiambo emphasized the initiative as part of an annual effort to support individuals with disabilities, urging beneficiaries to use the equipment wisely to improve their livelihoods. She acknowledged that the fund had received 100 requests but could only support a limited number at a time due to the nationwide scope of the program. However, she assured those who missed out that they would be considered in the future.
Prof. Ojiambo encouraged beneficiaries to begin transforming their lives with the equipment provided and to spread the word about the available support to others in need. She also warned against misusing or selling the equipment and urged beneficiaries to return any items that were not beneficial to them. Prof. Ojiambo reiterated the government’s commitment to assisting people with disabilities through various means, including providing resources for business start-ups.
She highlighted the importance of acquiring the necessary skills to effectively utilize the equipment and become productive members of society. Additionally, parents of disabled children were also supported with equipment to help them engage in business activities and support their children.
Other officials present at the distribution included Cecilia Mbaka, NFDK Trustee, Vera Ouma, Rachuonyo South Sub-county Gender and Social Development Officer, and Denis Kieti, Rachuonyo South Deputy County Commissioner. These officials, along with local chiefs and assistants, pledged to monitor the progress of the beneficiaries and cautioned against selling the donated equipment.