In Nyamira County, persons with disabilities (PWDs) recently received assistive devices aimed at promoting independent mobility, thanks to a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the Rani Ramchandani Initiative, the ECAP organization, and the Nyamira County government.
Vincent Cheruiyot, representing the Rani Ramchandani Initiative in Kenya, highlighted that Rani’s philanthropic efforts, which include donating wheelchairs, crutches, and white canes, are enabling many vulnerable PWDs in Nyamira to move more freely without needing to be physically carried or guided.
“Beyond providing assistive devices, Rani’s initiative offers a mentorship program for school-going children, encouraging them to focus on education and make informed career choices that will help them succeed in a competitive job market,” Cheruiyot noted.
Mr. Morara Apiemi, founder of the Empowered Citizenry Against Poverty (ECAP) organization, which collaborates with the Ramchandani initiative, shared his vision of a society where governance supports justice and inclusion, empowering both people with disabilities and economically vulnerable individuals to fully participate in their communities.
“ECAP is eager to work with like-minded individuals, organizations, and government departments to create a robust support network that alleviates poverty and uplifts those in need,” said Apiemi. He added that the Nyamira County government has committed to dispatching medical personnel to assess and register PWDs at the household level, as many struggle to access hospitals for registration, which limits their eligibility for assistance.
“This is our second time delivering assistive devices to Nyamira, and we’re committed to continuing the program to enable PWDs to undertake essential daily tasks independently,” Apiemi affirmed.
Douglas Onkeo, a key mobilizer for the program, emphasized the need to address stigma, explaining that families with members who have disabilities often hide this information from the public and authorities.
“We aim to educate those affected by stigma and denial that disability is not the end of life. We also support these households by providing skills for small-scale agriculture to enhance their nutrition and food security,” Onkeo said.
Onkeo further encouraged communities to embrace inclusivity and support PWDs, emphasizing that many have unique talents and abilities and that disabilities are never by personal choice.
