Caregivers of children living with autism and cerebral palsy in Kericho County have received a major boost after the Safaricom Foundation donated diaper-making machines valued at Sh500,000.
The two machines, handed over to Arise and Shine, a community-based organisation (CBO) supporting children with special needs, are expected to ease the financial burden of purchasing diapers while also creating a source of livelihood for caregivers and widows.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, a representative from the foundation, Tom Owour, said the initiative is part of the company’s commitment to empowering vulnerable communities.
“We are committed to supporting children living with special needs because we understand the daily challenges they face. The machine will help ease the burden of caregivers while improving the quality of care,” said Owour.
According to Arise and Shine director Pamela Keno, the donation will enable beneficiaries to produce affordable diapers locally, improving hygiene and dignity for children who require constant care and attention.
“Many of our caregivers struggle to afford necessities like diapers. This machine will not only reduce that burden but also allow them to earn a living and support their families,” she said.
Keno noted that demand for diapers among children with autism and cerebral palsy remains high, donating both a social and economic intervention for vulnerable families.
“We will be able to produce up to 40 diapers per day in different sizes, including adult, medium and small. The diapers will retail between Sh400 and Sh500, depending on their size, making them more affordable for caregivers. They will be made using cotton fabric with a waterproof inner layer to ensure comfort and durability,” she added.
Caregivers welcomed the donation, describing it as timely and transformative.
One caregiver, Deborah Cherotich, who cares for her 20-year-old daughter living with cerebral palsy, said she spends about Sh3,000 on adult diapers each month.
“I have been spending a lot of money on diapers every month. This support will reduce my expenses and also allow me to earn a living,” said Cherotich.
Another beneficiary, Andrew Rono, expressed hope that the project will ease the challenges of raising children with special needs.
“Taking care of children with special needs is demanding. I am a father of two teenage boys aged 19 and 16 years, both born with special needs; one is mentally challenged, while the other is living with autism. With this machine, I feel supported and encouraged that I am not alone,” he said.
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Arise and Shine CBO, founded in 2023 and based in Kericho, focuses on supporting children with disabilities and neurodevelopmental disorders while advocating for their rights, dignity, and inclusion. The organisation also works to empower caregivers and their families.
The stakeholders spoke during the handover ceremony held at the organisation’s grounds along the Kericho–Kisumu highway at Duka Moja area, on the outskirts of Kericho town.
By Kimutai Langat
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