Jackline Mwende: With my new hands, I feel complete

Jackline Mwende is received by her Mother Jane Munyoki and her father Samuel at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on her arrival from Korea, where she was fitted with prosthetic limbs. (PHOTO: BONIFACE OKENDO/ STANDARD)

Even the bright 3pm sun could not overshadow the neatly-plastered smile on Jackline Mwende’s face.

Her walk was majestic, with her new pair of hands swaying in rhythm as she strolled down the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport arrival terminal, a clear indication that she had received a new lease of life.

Amidst the scars engraved deep in her face emerged a smile like that of a three-year-old whose mother has just returned home after being away for work.

“I thank God. I am happy. I now have my hands back,” she said.

The 27-year-old, who hails from Machakos County, came into the limelight in August over a domestic violence incident that saw her hands allegedly chopped off by her husband.

This was allegedly over a childless marriage.

Besides losing hands, Mwende had sustained serious deep cuts on her face that have so far left her disfigured.

“But now I am well again. Actually, I feel independent. I can eat, drink and even visit the washroom by myself,” she said.

She added: “As for my husband, let the law deal with him. All I know it was him who did this to me.”

Caused stir

Mwende’s arrival at JKIA caused a stir among other passengers, who could not help but wonder who this lady was.

Unlike other passengers, Mwende’s was welcomed with two bouquets of flowers from electronic company LG and the Machakos County Government, which she held firmly with her new prosthetic hands as she posed for photos.

She kept on stretching her hands with confidence to anyone who came to greet her.

Her new hands feel as soft and as real as her skin. Her prosthetic fingernails were also neatly painted maroon. It was close to impossible to notice the difference.

But Chief Orthopaedic Surgeon at Kikuyu PCEA Hospital Micheal Maru, who had referred Mwende to Seoul, Korea for prosthetic limbs said it will take time before she gains full functionality. The surgery took place on October 6.

“Usually, at least two months. But a patient with prosthetic limbs does not fully regain her functionality. These limbs are just meant to enable her to be independent,” said Maru.

Mr Maru said Mwende’s Sh3 million limbs are not meant for heavy activities.

“These limbs are not meant for farm work, even cooking. She needs to do simple foods,” said Mr Maru.