Gucha: Sixteen persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Gucha Sub-County have received a major boost towards self-reliance and economic empowerment following the distribution of essential tools and equipment by the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK).
According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative, led by team leader Japheth Oswe, saw beneficiaries receive knitting machines, masonry toolkits, salon toolkits, welding machines, and carpentry toolkits, each tailored to the specific skills and expertise of the recipients. The beneficiaries, selected from various locations across all the sub-counties to ensure equitable distribution, were all smiling as they received their much-needed tools.
Oswe explained that the initiative aims to uplift the economic status of PWDs by equipping them with the resources they need to pursue their trades and become financially independent. Speaking during the event, Oswe emphasized that the selection process is continuous and encouraged those who did not benefit this time to apply for the next round of aid. He noted that many applicants miss out due to errors in filling out their forms, urging potential beneficiaries to seek guidance when completing their applications.
‘The application process is ongoing, and those who were not selected this time can still benefit in the future. Application forms are available at the Sub-County Assistant Commissioner’s Office. However, it is important to ensure that applications are filled out correctly to avoid missing out due to technical errors,’ Oswe advised.
He further clarified that while the fund provides essential tools, it does not offer startup capital, a concern raised by some attendees. Nonetheless, he encouraged beneficiaries to leverage their newly acquired equipment to generate sustainable income. One of the biggest wins for beneficiaries is the exemption from single business permits. Oswe assured the recipients that they only need their disability certificate and the official letters issued to them upon receiving the aid to operate their businesses. This protection removes a significant financial burden, allowing them to focus on growing their enterprises.
‘We want to make it easier for PWDs to establish their businesses without unnecessary costs. As long as they have their certificate of disability and the letter issued today, they can operate without the need for a county business permit,’ Oswe stated.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the program, Oswe acknowledged that the reduction in USAID funding has negatively impacted the organization’s reach, limiting the number of beneficiaries they can support. ‘We would love to assist more people, but the cut in USAID funding has affected our operations. However, we remain committed to ensuring that PWDs continue receiving the necessary support to enhance their livelihoods,’ he told KNA.
Also present at the event was Gucha Assistant County Commissioner, Charles Korir, who expressed gratitude for the aid program and encouraged beneficiaries to use the tools wisely to improve their living standards. He also reminded the public that the application is open to all PWDs, regardless of age, urging more people to apply.
‘This is a great initiative that provides PWDs with an opportunity to improve their lives. I encourage the beneficiaries to maximize the use of these tools and make a meaningful impact in their communities,’ Korir said.
For the recipients, the aid was more than just tools; it was a lifeline to financial independence. Many expressed excitement and gratitude, seeing the equipment as a stepping stone to a brighter future. Linett Nyakeriga, one of the beneficiaries, was overjoyed after receiving a sewing machine, which she plans to use to generate extra income for her household.
‘I cannot express how grateful I am! This sewing machine will help me provide for my family and create a better life for us,’ she said with joy.
The initiative by NFDK continues to play a critical role in empowering PWDs across the country, ensuring that disability is not a limitation but an opportunity for growth and self-sufficiency. As more PWDs apply and benefit from such programs, the vision of an inclusive and economically empowered society inches closer to reality.