Nyanza PWDs receive Ksh5M boost as fund pushes economic independence
By Viola Kosome, June 5, 2026Persons with disabilities in Nyanza have received a major boost after the National Fund for the Disabled of Kenya (NFDK) distributed assistive devices, tools of trade and institutional grants worth more than Ksh5 million in a move aimed at promoting economic independence and social inclusion.
The support, launched in Kisumu on June 4, 2026, targets both individual beneficiaries and institutions serving persons with disabilities. Officials say the initiative is designed to equip recipients with resources that can help them improve their livelihoods and become self-reliant.
Speaking during the launch, NFDK Chairman Francis Kibera stated that the fund’s mandate is to enhance the social and economic welfare of persons with disabilities nationwide through direct support and institutional funding.
“We consider it a noble mission. We assist individuals with disabilities by providing assistive devices such as wheelchairs and white canes, but more importantly, we also provide tools of trade to enable them to earn a living and become self-sufficient,” said Kibera.
He explained that beneficiaries received equipment tailored to their skills and economic activities, including welding machines, salon kits and farming tools.
“Instead of giving people fish, we are giving them the tools to fish for themselves. We want persons with disabilities to participate fully in economic activities and improve their livelihoods,” he added.
According to Kibera, the fund provided assistive devices and tools of trade to 18 beneficiaries from Kisumu East, Kisumu West and Kisumu Central sub-counties at a cost of Ksh815,000.
In addition, 21 institutions serving persons with disabilities received grants of Sh200,000 each to support small development projects, bringing the total value of the support to Ksh4.2 million. The combined investment amounts to slightly over Sh5 million.
Kibera noted that the exercise marks the beginning of a wider regional rollout that will see similar support extended to other sub-counties and counties across the Nyanza region.
He said the organisation also funds larger infrastructure projects through its flagship grants programme, under which institutions can receive up to Sh2.7 million for the construction of facilities such as classrooms, dormitories and laboratories, as well as an additional Sh300,000 for equipment.
“Last week, we advertised a call for proposals for institutions that would like to benefit from the flagship projects. Applications received will be considered in the next financial year, starting July 1,” he said.
Disability financial aid support
Beyond financial support, Kibera emphasised the importance of advocacy in advancing the rights and welfare of persons with disabilities.
He cited the enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, as one of the milestones in strengthening legal protection and inclusion for people living with disabilities.
He also appealed to county governments, corporate organizations and development partners to work closely with the fund to expand support to more beneficiaries.
“Resources are never enough. We are calling upon county governments, private companies and people of goodwill to join hands with us because supporting persons with disabilities is a collective responsibility,” he said.
Kibera further urged families and communities to stop hiding children and adults with disabilities, saying many have the potential to make significant contributions to society if given opportunities and support.
“We do not want children with disabilities hidden in homes. By doing so, we may be denying the country future lawyers, engineers, accountants and even journalists. We want them to come out and access the opportunities available to them,” he said.
Nyanza Regional Commissioner Onesmus Kyatha commended the initiative, describing it as a critical intervention that is transforming lives and promoting economic empowerment among vulnerable groups.
Disability aid beneficiaries
“This programme is touching the lives of people who genuinely need support. It is a form of socio-economic empowerment that enables beneficiaries to improve their livelihoods and contribute positively to society,” said Kyatha.
He said the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) play a key role in identifying deserving beneficiaries through grassroots administrative structures, ensuring support reaches those who need it most.
Kyatha urged beneficiaries to make proper use of the equipment and resources provided to them and avoid selling the items.
“We do not want to hear stories of beneficiaries selling the tools they have received. These items are meant to improve their lives and help them generate income. Some of the beneficiaries can even become employers by creating opportunities for others,” he said.
The Regional Commissioner also called on village elders, assistant chiefs and chiefs to identify persons with disabilities who may still be excluded from support programmes and ensure they are linked to available opportunities.
“No one should be left behind. We must ensure that persons with disabilities are identified and supported. The government is committed to reaching the most vulnerable members of society,” he said.