Embu: The National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK) has made a significant contribution to the empowerment of persons with disabilities in the Eastern Region by donating equipment and grants totaling Sh. 4.2 million. This initiative aims to support both individuals and institutions that cater to learners with disabilities.
According to Kenya News Agency, a total of 21 institutions received financial support through cheques to enhance their projects, which are focused on creating a better learning environment. Additionally, individuals with disabilities were provided with equipment such as barbering, salon, welding, and farming kits to aid in their personal empowerment and self-reliance.
During the donation ceremony at the Eastern Regional Headquarters in Embu Town, Fund Trustee David Musila highlighted the substantial impact of NFDK in the region. He noted that the fund has allocated Sh. 93 million since its inception in the early 80s, benefiting 35 projects in various special schools at an average cost of Sh. 3 million each.
Musila called on other stakeholders, including county governments, the private sector, and the media, to actively engage in promoting disability inclusion. He emphasized that mainstreaming disability issues requires a collective effort beyond the fund’s initiatives.
The tools provided to individuals are intended to foster self-reliance and resilience among persons with disabilities, enabling them to meet their needs sustainably and with dignity. This, Musila noted, would help reduce dependency and allow recipients to engage fully in their community’s socio-economic activities, thus promoting independence and productivity.
Embu County Commissioner Jack Obuo urged beneficiaries to utilize the equipment as intended, ensuring the sustainability of the projects. He stressed that selling the equipment would undermine the project’s objectives and urged the community to respect and support the program’s goals.
