By Gilbert Ochieng
Japanese Ambassador to Kenya Ken Okaniwa has commissioned two dormitories at Kakapel Special School for Hearing Impairment in Teso North Sub-county. They were funded by Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) – Embassy of Japan.
The Ambassador, who presided over the project that also included provision of water tanks, pit latrines, beds and mattresses, said the Government of Japan supported the project because children with hearing impairment or any other disability are an important part of the community.
“It’s very important they learn and have skills so as to contribute to the society when they are grown up,” he said, noting that the concept of human security is aimed at empowering the disadvantaged and protect them from difficulties and threats.
Okaniwa said Japan is able to help but there must be ownership of projects by the Kenyan people.
He thanked the school management for the good job that saw them achieve the construction of the facilities in time despite the Covid-19 pandemic. He praised the pupils for their brilliant skills, urging them to study hard.
Busia County Director for Public Administration Robert Muganda, who represented the governor Sospeter Ojaamong, Angurai South Member of the County Assembly Grace Olita and ACK Katakwa Diocese Bishop John Okude thanked the Japanese government for the support and urged the community to protect the facilities.
The Government of Japan introduced GGP in 1989 in order to respond to the diverse development needs in less developed countries.
The aim of GGP is to provide financial assistance to non-profit development organizations for implementing projects at community level. Those eligible to apply for its assistance include
educational and medical institutions, Community-Based Organizations, local and international NGOs, faith-based organizations and local authorities.
