The Kisumu County Government, in collaboration with the international NGO Walkabout Foundation, has initiated a week-long program at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) to distribute a second batch of 122 wheelchairs to person’s with disabilities (PWDs) throughout the county. The initiative, spearheaded by the Walkabout Foundation and coordinated by the Office of Governor’s Advisor on PWDs , began on September 23rd and will run until September 28th, with the official launch set for Wednesday, September 25th.
During the event’s opening, Mr. John Awiti, County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, Technical Training, Innovation, and Social Services, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Walkabout Foundation for their remarkable work. “Today marks the first step, and we are committed to ensuring that everyone in need receives support,” he stated.
Hon. Caroline Agwanda, the Governor’s Special Advisor on PWDs, emphasized that this initiative reflects Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o’s dedication to fostering inclusivity and empowering PWDs. “We are donating a total of 122 wheelchairs, each valued at KSh 120,000. These include 10 specialized cerebral palsy wheelchairs for children, 17 general mobility wheelchairs, and 75 adult wheelchairs,” she explained.
The program aims to enhance mobility and independence for PWDs, in line with the Governor’s inclusivity agenda. “Our goal is not only to align with international mobility laws and disability rights conventions endorsed by the Governor, but also to contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Hon. Agwanda noted.
Ms. Agwanda also highlighted that the donated wheelchairs adhere to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for assistive devices. “Each wheelchair was custom-fitted to suit the specific needs of the recipients. Our commitment goes beyond improving mobility; we aim to enhance the comfort and independence of each individual,” she added.
This initiative reinforces Kisumu County Government’s commitment to supporting PWDs by providing vital resources that enhance their quality of life and promote inclusivity for all residents.