Kabarnet School for Deafblind organises successful charity walk

Hundreds of people participated in a five-kilometer charity walk to support students at Kabarnet School for the Deafblind, who require special attention due to their disabilities On February 14. The walk began at Kasoiyo Trading Centre in Baringo Central and concluded at the school’s grounds.

Its purpose was to raise funds for the institution, which is facing numerous challenges, including inadequate food supply, water shortages, lack of sanitation facilities, and fee arrears for students.

In response to these issues, the Baringo County Government collaborated with well-wishers to organize the event, themed “Touch a Deaf, Blind Child with Love this Valentine.” Governor Benjamin Cheboi, who led the walk, emphasized that the day symbolizes love and compassion for vulnerable members of society.

He remarked that these young children have great potential and deserve the same opportunities as others to learn and thrive in their futures. “It is our collective responsibility, as both levels of government, various institutions, partners, and individuals, to bridge this gap by supporting deafblind children in accessing quality education, which is their right,” he stated.

Head teacher Eunice Chesang emphasized that the event, coinciding with Valentine’s Day, is intended to express love for the learners.

“We are holding a charity walk for the purpose of sharing love with our children who are currently facing many challenges,” she noted.

READ ALSO: Burial date for KEPSHA Chairman Nziokareleased

“This charity walk aimed to help us mobilize resources and offset some of these debts. Our 22 support staff members urgently need our full support, as they work in shifts to assist with tasks like feeding the children,” she explained.

She further urged the government to expedite the release of capitation funds for the school, stressing that demonstrating love to the learners can inspire and give them hope.

According to her, the government-run institution has a debt of over KSh 7 million, with staff going for several months without salaries.

County Assembly Speaker Vincent Kemboi and Kabarnet MCA Ernest Kibet also expressed concerns about the school’s challenges, urging the government to address it with the care it requires due to its unique needs.

By Kimutai Langat