Kandara: Parents and caregivers of children living with disabilities in Kandara, Murang’a, have called upon the community to end stigma and support these children, enabling them to reach their potential. Speaking at Don Orione Community Center during a ceremony to raise funds for a disability-friendly school bus, parents and caregivers emphasized the importance of community support in alleviating the burdens faced by families with children who have disabilities.
According to Kenya News Agency, Teresiah Wanjiku, a parent, highlighted the invaluable specialized education provided at centers like Don Orione, which many children still lack access to. She stressed the need for the community to protect and care for children with disabilities, as they are more vulnerable to abuse. Another parent, Ruth Muhia, urged the community to reduce stigma and support caregivers, sharing her personal experiences of discrimination when carrying her 10-year-old child.
The Don Orione Community Center, which was fundraising at th
e event, offers prevocational training to older children to enhance their independence. Beatrice Nyambura, a teacher at the center, explained that the training includes skills like farming, beadwork, and hair and beauty, helping children become productive community members. She emphasized the need for a special school bus to provide consistent access to classes, ensuring reliable and safe transport.
Father Gedion Ombuori, the director of the institution, stated that the center needs between five and six million shillings to purchase a disability-friendly bus to transport children to and from school. He encouraged parents with children living with disabilities to enroll them in such schools to receive the necessary education and support.
Kandara Member of Parliament Chege Njuguna also attended the event, advocating for increased government funding for people with disabilities. He stressed the importance of establishing clear programs to enhance inclusivity and urged residents to actively support children wit
h disabilities to help them thrive academically and socially.