“Parents Urged to Register Their Children with NCPWD for Enhanced Support”

The recent push by the government for parents to register their children with disabilities with the National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) is a crucial step in improving support and services for these children. Here’s a summary and some key points from the initiative:

1. Objective of Registration: The main goal is to gather accurate data on children with disabilities to aid in budget planning and to ensure they receive the necessary financial and material support. Accurate data will help the government streamline services and better target resources.
2. Encouraging Registration: Winfred Wairimu from the ARDD emphasizes that registration is vital for effective service delivery. She urges parents to avoid hiding their children due to stigma, as this can lead to worsened conditions and reduced access to support.
3. Benefits Provided: At the recent event at Don Orione Special School, children and adults with disabilities received various forms of support, including diapers, sanitary towels, nutritional drugs, therapy, sunscreen lotions, and spectacles. This highlights the tangible benefits that registration can bring.
4. Training for Parents: Parents received training on home therapy and proper feeding for their children, which is crucial for managing disabilities and ensuring better outcomes for their children.
5. Addressing Stigma: Esther Makena, the County Director of Disability Services, noted the importance of creating awareness and reducing stigma around disabilities. This effort aims to make it easier for families to seek help without fear.
6. Financial Support: Parents are encouraged to visit NCPWD offices to access bursaries and scholarships for their children, particularly those from needy families. This financial support can make a significant difference in the quality of education and care that children with disabilities receive.
7. Local Community Involvement: Winnie Wangui, the Head Teacher of Don Orione Special School, highlighted the need for local communities to overcome stigmatization and bring their children to specialized schools. She also called for improved access to therapy and medical supplies directly at the school.

The registration initiative represents a broader commitment to supporting children with disabilities and their families by providing necessary resources and reducing barriers to access