Nanyuki: Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) have appealed for increased government support, emphasizing the need for more tender and job opportunities. They highlighted that current allocations are below five percent, which is significantly less than the legal requirement.

According to Kenya News Agency, during a forum organized by Light for the World in Nanyuki town, Laikipia County, it was revealed that only one percent of job and tender opportunities are allocated to PWDs, falling short of the 30 percent mandated by law. Light for the World, a local organization, aims to support PWDs in business across Meru, Kakamega, Kiambu, and Laikipia counties.

Miriam Wangechi, a mother of a child with autism, shared her struggle to balance daily livelihood activities and caregiving responsibilities. She urged the government to implement strategies to support caregivers by increasing business capital and tender allocations at the county level. Wangechi noted that many caregivers face significant responsibilities and challenges in meeting their families’ needs.

She further suggested that designating public spaces for PWDs to conduct business would facilitate their economic activities. Additionally, she called for government support in organizing exhibitions, which would serve as a marketing strategy and help PWDs showcase their products and attract customers.

David Ndung’u, Assistant Project Officer at Light for the World, stated that the organization has been instrumental in transforming the livelihoods of PWDs by connecting them with institutions such as schools for tender opportunities. He mentioned that some PWD entrepreneurs are undergoing training in agriculture, poultry farming, vegetable growing, and retail to enhance their economic prospects.