Persons living with disabilities have been urged to consider forming self-help groups that they can use to access help from the government.
Speaking on Sunday when he hosted representatives of persons with disabilities in Kisii County, governor James Ongwae said the groups were necessary since they could help them win tenders advertised by the county government.
He said it will be fair if they are assisted as a group rather than individuals top boost their welfare and living standards.
“My challenge to you is to form groups so that you can access help as a team not as an individual. We have tenders that constitutionally should be given to you for sustainability but it’s absurd to note that many of you consider doing things at individual level,” he said.
Ongwae challenged leaders of persons with disabilities to be honest and truthful and urged them to report immediately to his office whenever they are not served in county offices when they seek help.
“You are also humans and what is important is that we want to see truthful and honest representation. It’s your duty to ensure that everyone is informed about our commitment as a county government. Do not hesitate to report any mistreatment by any public official when seeking services,” he said.
He said the county government was on the verge of coming up with a kitty to be used to give loans to the disabled at zero interest rates but only if they are in groups, for accountability purposes.
“We are about to come up with a kitty from which you will apply for loans without remitting interests but that can only happen if you have registered groups for the purpose of accountability,” he added.