I need a wheelchair to work, young welder appeals

It is 9am and physically challenged Nicholas Kibet is already working for his clients in his welding yard.

Disability is not inability, Kibet says, and being unable to move around easily doesn't make his skills useless.

“I am a youth who is struggling to make ends meet. I have the skills to work as a welder so my condition won't keep me from performing my job," Kibet said.

He cannot use his legs but he doesn't need legs to weld. 

Kibet from Sigor, Chepalungu in Bomet county, has surprised many people with his resilience and working skills.

Five years ago, he was employed in a welding workshop, where he trained and gained skills before opening his own yard.             

His workshop is in Sigor town, about 35km from Bomet town.

He said business is doing well.

“Five years ago, I was employed in a yard where I gained skills that have made me a perfect welder here. I have been offering welding services to clients from around Sigor,”he said.            

But he faces financial challenges and cannot employ staff to help him with his increasing work.

“Since I do not have anyone to help me lift heavy metal, I suffer a lot. Regrettably I cannot hire a worker to assist me as I cannot afford it," he said.

Repairing broken car parts, motorcycles and any metalwork are common jobs.

"I have mostly been fixing motorcycles and repairing broken household appliances and doors brought in by my customers,” he said.

Saying it is a difficult task moving around his yard without a wheelchair, Kbet asked well-wishers to provide him with  a wheelchair to make him more efficient.

“I am also requesting the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and any other well-wisher to intervene and support me financially or in kind to enhance my small business,” Kibet appealed..

(Edited by V. Graham)