People living with disabilities in Vihiga County have received tools worth Kshs 600,000 from the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya. Speaking while handing over of the tools at Sabatia Sub County headquarters in Vihiga Assistant Program Manager Isaac Aliyah asked the beneficiaries to use the tools to empower themselves by venturing into business.
He assured those who did not benefit this year that they stand a chance of getting help in future. “We have more than 4 million people living with disabilities in the country. We have a desire to help all of them but we cannot do it considering a few funds at our disposal,” he said. Therefore I appeal to those who did not get help this financial year to remain hopeful. They will be considered in the next phase provided they apply,” he assured them.
Aliyah decried the low number of disabled people applying for tenders in devolved units in as much the government has set aside a 30 per cent provision for youth women and people living with disabilities.
Sabatia Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Isaiah Tonui echoed Aliyah’s sentiments and urged more disabled to venture in businesses saying that there is an exemption for them to pay market revenue. The Tonui advised the beneficiaries to make proper use of the tools to achieve the intended objectives.
He warned caregivers who would want to take advantage of the condition of the beneficiaries to trade the tools saying that once reported, they will face the full force of the law. According to Beatrice Kageha; one of the beneficiaries of the donation, it was a dream come true as she received a special bicycle. Among other tools given to beneficiaries were farm, carpentry, welding and salon kits.