Kakamega: The County Government of Kakamega, in collaboration with BethanyKids, has distributed assistive devices valued at Sh15 million to more than 580 individuals with disabilities. The distribution took place during the commemoration of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities at Bukhungu Stadium in Kakamega town.
According to Kenya News Agency, Governor Fernandes Barasa, who led the distribution ceremony, emphasized that the devices were customized to address the specific needs of each recipient. He committed to the county’s continued annual provision of such devices to improve mobility and productivity among people with disabilities (PWDs).
In conjunction with the event, Governor Barasa introduced the County Social Protection Policy, a framework aimed at ensuring that people with disabilities benefit from county programs. This policy is intended to guide the county administration in enhancing access to essential services and empowering PWDs.
Governor Barasa also detailed several initiatives focused on the welfare of PWDs, including ensuring accessibility in all county offices. He announced plans to establish a disability fund to support PWD activities and implement affirmative action in procurement, guaranteeing at least 5 percent of tenders for PWD groups.
The governor highlighted efforts to nurture talents among PWDs in sports and music, noting that the Governor’s Cup would include a special category for them. Additionally, he mentioned that two PWD groups from each of the county’s 60 wards would receive Sh50,000 microgrants to support their businesses.
Other measures include allocating 10 percent of Kazi Mashinani slots to PWDs and involving them in hospital management boards. Job Matumbai, a representative from BethanyKids, announced the organization’s plans to host the Great Wheel event in Kakamega during next year’s International Wheelchair Celebrations. The event will feature six wheelchair users traveling from Kakamega to Kijabe, raising awareness about physical disability and the significance of appropriate wheelchair use.
Lawyer Aggrey Chitsama, Vice Board Chair of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, urged county governments to assist PWDs in accessing affirmative action opportunities, such as jobs and tenders. He highlighted the current gap, where PWDs secure less than 2 percent of available opportunities, and stressed the need for counties to guide and support PWDs in accessing these benefits.
