The Afya Care Foundation has introduced a new initiative to provide free psychotherapy services for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Trans Nzoia County. The program aims to address the growing mental health challenges among PWDs, with a focus on reducing isolation, stigma, and loneliness, which have been identified as key contributing factors.
Key Focus Areas
Dr. Calistus Simiyu, the County Coordinator for Afya Care Foundation, outlined the program’s priorities during its launch in Kitale. The initiative will pay special attention to:
- Mental health challenges among PWDs, particularly youth aged 13 to 40.
- Substance and drug abuse issues affecting PWDs.
- Promoting physical fitness to prevent chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes, which are prevalent due to lack of physical activity.
To enhance the health of PWDs, the foundation plans to organize regular health and fitness activities every one to two months, starting within the next three months.
Advocacy for Education and Policy
Dr. Simiyu emphasized the need for tailored strategies and policy enhancements to safeguard the rights and interests of PWDs. He also called on the government to:
- Incorporate mental health education as a compulsory subject in schools.
- Allocate more resources for mental health awareness and support.
Representation Concerns
Ojiambo Opis, the Chairman of PWDs in Trans Nzoia County, raised concerns about the lack of representation for PWDs in the Trans Nzoia County Assembly. He termed this a constitutional violation that undermines the protection of PWDs’ rights.
“How can their interests be addressed without representation in the County Assembly? Despite numerous petitions, our concerns have been ignored,” Opis said, urging the Registrar of Political Parties, the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC), and the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) to ensure such oversights are corrected by the 2027 elections.
Strengthening Inclusion and Support
The Afya Care Foundation’s initiative is seen as a significant step toward improving the mental well-being of PWDs in the region. It also highlights the broader need for systemic changes to promote inclusion, address discrimination, and uphold the rights of persons with disabilities.
