Vihiga County joined the world in marking the International Day of Persons With Disabilities (IDPWD) 2024, a day dedicated to promoting the rights, well-being, and inclusion of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society and development.
The event, held at Mbale Municipal Grounds, was graced by Governor Dr. Wilber Khasilwa Ottichilo, where over 100 Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) received mobility devices, including modern wheelchairs, walking frames, and white canes. These devices were provided through a partnership between the County Government of Vihiga and the Rani Ramchandani Foundation, which also donated sanitary towels to support the PWD community.
In his address, Governor Ottichilo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing disability issues."We have implemented the Disability Act by constituting a Disability Board to handle your matters. Plans are underway to establish a Disability Directorate to execute activities specific to PWDs,” he said.
The Governor further announced ongoing discussions with the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) to set up a PWD learning center at Itando. The center will equip persons with disabilities with skills and knowledge relevant to the current job market.
He also urged the newly formed Disability Board to prioritize creating a PWD center as part of their strategic planning process.
Rani Ramchandani Foundation CEO commended the collaboration, stating that the mobility devices would ease movement and improve the quality of life for PWDs in the county.
The event was also attended by County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Gender, Culture, and Social Services Anne Desma, who assured the PWD community of continued support."This year's theme, Amplifying the Leadership of Persons With Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future, aligns with our efforts to promote self-sustainability and leadership among PWDs,” she noted.
The celebration was a significant step toward fostering inclusivity and creating opportunities for PWDs in Vihiga County.
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