Counties in the North Rift region are recording an increase in cases of cerebral palsy among children.
Trans Nzoia has the highest number with more than 500 children known to be living with the condition.
Records also indicate that there are more than 200 cases in West Pokot and a similar number in Uasin Gishu, Turkana, Nandi and Elgeyo Marakwet counties.
In total more than 1,300 cases have been recorded in counties within the region.
Trans Nzoia Gender and Social Services director Robert Kibii says they are working with other partners to identify all affected children and offer them necessary support.
“We have quite a high rate of the cerebral palsy cases in Trans Nzoia and the county government is engaging with partners in preventive as well as mitigation measures,” he said.
At least Sh5 million has been earmarked to offer support to such children in the county along with other people living with disabilities.
Kibii said the county government has a policy of working with like-minded partners in the fight against cerebral palsy among children.
The county has been hosting a series of activities as part of dealing with cerebral palsy in the region.
Last week, the county organised events at the Cherangani Nursing home in Kitale for the affected children and their parents.
Cherangany Nursing Home which also carries out several programs to address the condition has come on board in aid of such children through a partnership with the county government and parents.
Silas Kisang, an administrator at Cheranganyi Nursing Home said the facility has partnered with the Cerebral Palsy Society in Trans Nzoia to sensitise the public on the condition as well as offer physiotherapy services to affected children.
He disclosed that discussions with the society to develop a day care for the children are ongoing.
“All our children have rights which they should not be denied. No one should hide a child with such a problem or any other person living with any forms of disability,” he said.
Nationally statistics indicate that in every 100 children born in the country at least three suffer from cerebral palsy.
Kibii said the county through the ward specific fund has allocated funds to buy blankets and other assorted items for people living with disabilities.
More than 100 wheel chairs will also be distributed to affected children.
The director urged parents and guardians with physically or mentally challenged children to stop hiding them from the society but instead come out to support their well being.
(Edited by Bilha Makokha)
