Government urged to protect disabled amid rains

First Lady Rachael Ruto, hand over food stuffs to hundreds of floods victims at Athi River town on April 30. [Peterson Githaiga, Standard]

The government has been urged to protect people living with disabilities as rains continue to pound many parts of the country.

Ann Ndungu, CEO of Giving Hope to the Hopeless Organisation and a champion of disability rights, highlighted the plight of thousands of disabled individuals severely affected by the ongoing rains, with many left without food or shelter.

"As the rain pounds many parts of the country, we should also discuss the harsh realities persons with disabilities are facing during this challenging season. Many are unable to venture out in search of food, fearing for their safety as water levels rise," said Ndungu.

Ndungu also advised parents with disabled children not to hide them but to take them to child care centres for support. She emphasised that hiding such children would prevent them from realising their potential, as many are cognitively sound.

"Disability is not inability. We should have as many partners ready to partner with us to ensure children with disabilities lead comfortable lives during their schooling years," said Kajiado Governor Joseph Lenku.

Ndungu spoke during the distribution of food and beddings to people living with disabilities at Aloibor Ajijik village in Kajiado central sub-county.

Approximately 60 families living with disabilities received food and grains.

During the event, the importance of registering with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities was emphasised, highlighting the access to critical resources and support that such registration can provide.

"We are here to advocate and champion breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. No person should be discriminated against for being disabled. They should be handled well and protected from any harm," said the CEO.

Kajiado County, home to 63,120 registered people living with disabilities, has seen calls for the appointment of disabled individuals to top County positions as a way of implementing affirmative action in their favour.

The event was attended by several representatives from various organisations, including Cosmos Julius from Maendeleo ya Walemavu Organisation, Denise Mwanzia, a passionate representative for persons with disabilities, and Kevin, CEO of Elite Sports Organisation.