With support from AFS Kenya and the YES Alumni Organization, two alumni: Anthony Mulanzia and Brian Bright, are implementing a community development project in partnership with the Hands of Love organization. The community project seeks to advance the inclusion of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in accessing education and COVID-19 safety information. An increased absence of basic services within informal settlement areas across Kenya has further led to further marginalization, increased exposure risk and opportunities for widespread misinformation on COVID-19. Additionally, underlying misconceptions and negative cultural perceptions concerning persons with disabilities have enhanced discrimination and violence against persons with disabilities.
The project seeks to counter this by providing training to teachers, caregivers, parents and community leaders on the inclusion of PWDs in accessing education and COVID-19 safety practices. The training will engage participants from informal settlement areas of Kariobangi, Korogocho, Huruma and Dandora. The project started in Mid-July with community consultations engaging 120 community members including local authorities, youth and women representatives.
Aside from engaging the community, other partners include ACAKORO (local sports organization) and the Kenya Institute of Special Education. Hands of Love is the implementing and funding partner with Mr Terry Little acting as the project advisor. The project was launched yesterday at Hands of Love and will go on during the weekends until December 2021.
