Kericho: Relief has come to caregivers of children living with autism and cerebral palsy in Kericho following the donation of diaper-making machines by the Safaricom Foundation. The machines, valued at Sh. 500,000, were handed over to Arise and Shine, a community-based organization dedicated to supporting these children. The initiative aims to reduce the financial burden of purchasing diapers while creating a livelihood for caregivers and widows.
According to Kenya News Agency, the handover ceremony took place at the CBO grounds along the Kericho-Kisumu highway in the Duka Moja area. Mr. Tom Owour, a representative from Safaricom Foundation, emphasized the company’s commitment to empowering vulnerable communities. “We are committed to supporting children living with special needs because we understand the daily challenges they face. The machine will help ease the burden of caregivers while improving the quality of care,” said Mr. Owour.
Mrs. Pamela Keno, the director of the CBO, expressed that the initiative would enable beneficiaries to produce affordable diapers locally, thus improving hygiene and dignity for children requiring constant care. “Many of our caregivers struggle to afford basic necessities like diapers. This machine will not only reduce that burden but also give them an opportunity to earn a living and support their families,” said Mrs. Keno.
The demand for diapers among children with autism and cerebral palsy remains high, making the donation a crucial social and economic intervention for vulnerable families. The organization expects to produce up to 40 diapers per day in different sizes, including adult, medium, and small. The diapers will be made using cotton fabric with a waterproof inner layer for comfort and durability, retailing between Sh. 400 and Sh. 500.
Caregivers have welcomed the donation, describing it as timely and transformative. Deborah Cherotich, a caregiver for her 20-year-old daughter with cerebral palsy, shared her relief. “I have been spending a lot of money on diapers every month. This support will reduce my expenses and also give me an opportunity to earn a living,” said Mama Rotich.
Another beneficiary, Andrew Rono, expressed hope for improved daily life as he cares for his two children with disabilities. “Taking care of children with special needs is demanding. I am a father of two teenage boys aged 19 and 16 years, both born with special needs. With this machine, I feel supported and encouraged that I am not alone,” said Rono.
Founded in 2023, Arise and Shine CBO is dedicated to supporting children with disabilities and neurodevelopmental disorders while advocating for their rights and inclusion. The organization also focuses on empowering caregivers and their families.
