Safaricom M-PESA Foundation, in collaboration with Christian Blind Mission (CBM) Kenya and CURE Kenya hospital, has extended 74-million-shilling support for children with disabilities in Kenya.
The project, dubbed “Wezesha Elimu” seeks to enhance the quality of education for children across the country.
It aims at helping these young minds undergo smooth transitions in schools as well as help them get the healthcare and rehabilitation needs without the lack of funds.
Safaricom M-PESA Foundation invested 22.5 million shillings in the project, the same amount CBM Kenya contributed. CURE Kenya will contribute 26.5 million shillings towards the project.
The project will see 27 medical mobiles held across the country targeting over 700 children and 300 surgeries.
Under the program, 27 medical mobile clinics will be held across the country targeting more than 700 children and 300 surgeries.
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Moreover, the financial aid will see 5 schools have their infrastructure upgraded. This will allow the children with disabilities to get easy access to learning opportunities. Over 100 assistive devices will also be distributed.
“Through the partnership, we aim to increase the enrolment and retention of children with disabilities in learning institutions and reduce the physical barriers which drive away learners from attending classes by revamping infrastructure in select schools,” Les Baillie, Executive Director, M-PESA Foundation said.
Les Baillie noted that the firm wants to create awareness about living with disabilities so that children with disabilities can access education without discrimination.
Joseph Okelo, CBM Chairperson, said the project will help create awareness about disabilities so that stigma is reduced.
“From the previous years, we have seen an increased demand for surgical interventions and rehabilitation services as parents and guardians are empowered with more information,” Okelo added.
Executive director of Cure Kenya, Abed Kilonzi who was also present at the launch added that children with disabilities need proper care and special equipment to be able to live like normal kids their age.