By Leonard Murunga
Children living with various forms of disabilities in Kakamega county alongside their caregivers will have a memorable Christmas, after well-wishers donated equipment worth thousands of shillings.
The children, especially those with cerebral palsy and mental disabilities received diapers and wheel-chairs, besides undergoing free medical checkup on Monday, during an event organized by Moyo Caregiver Foundation, in collaboration with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWDs), at the Approved School grounds, in Kakamega.
Speaking during the event, Isaac Simiyu, NCPWDs representative said there is an urgent need for disabled people and their caregivers to come out and reveal their conditions, so that they receive the necessary support they desperately need.
“We encourage caregivers to come out and bring out their children so that the government can find a way of helping them,” he appealed.
“They must also know that disability is not witchcraft but it’s just a health condition. Let us not be shy about it.”
On her part, Radio Presenter Mercy Mmbone who is the founder, Moyo Caregiver Foundation said the biggest challenge faced by people and families with disabled children is lack of knowledge on how to help and improve their lives.
She encouraged men to shoulder the task of raising children with disabilities alongside their wives, instead of playing a peripheral role in parenthood.
“From interactions with the parents and caregivers, I have come to learn that most of them do not have the knowledge on how they can be assisted,” stated the Radio Presenter.
“Men, if you give birth to a child with cerebral palsy or any other disability, kindly do not abandon your child and family. Stand with them.”
Some of the caregivers present said raising a child with cerebral palsy or any other form of disability is never a walk in the park.
NCPWD representative Isaac Simiyu. Photo/JM
“It is not easy,” said Allan Ashiono, adding that it becomes worse when some people attach the disability to witchcraft.
“I call on the government to identify and assist people living with disabilities in communities. I may be willing to help but I have nothing to share,” added Alice Luvembe.
10% of Kenya’s population is disabled, with Nairobi and Kakamega ranked the first and second respectively as the counties with the highest number of children living with disabilities.
Joy as children with disabilities, caregivers receive support from well-wishers
Tools
Typography
- Smaller Small Medium Big Bigger
- Default Helvetica Segoe Georgia Times
- Reading Mode