Association for Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK)

The Association for Physically Disabled of Kenya (APDK), Kisii Branch, is part of a larger organization that was established in 1958. The parent organization, APDK, was founded with the aim of improving the quality of life for people with physical disabilities in Kenya.

APDK Kisii Branch was established in the early 1980s to cater to the needs of people with physical disabilities in the South Nyanza, South Rift Valley, and parts of Western Kenya regions. The branch serves six counties, including Kisii, Nyamira, Migori, Homabay, Bomet, and part of Narok County.

The organization provides a wide range of services to people with disabilities, including rehabilitation, provision of mobility aids and appliances, advocacy, and vocational training. The branch work with a team of qualified professionals, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists and Orthopaedic technologists who work together to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

Over the years, APDK Kisii Branch has made significant contributions to the lives of people with disabilities in the region. The organization has played a crucial role in creating awareness about the rights and needs of people with disabilities, advocating for their inclusion in various spheres of life, and providing them with the necessary support to lead fulfilling lives.

MISSION

To enable persons with disability to overcome their physical limitations and empower them economically and socially to become self-reliant and fully integrated members of their communities

VISION

An inclusive society where persons with different abilities are empowered.

OBJECTIVES

To Create awareness on causes, prevention, and management of various disabilities with the aim of reducing prevalence and overcome prejudices and traditional believes towards Persons with Disabilities.

• To promote quality rehabilitation services through medical/social rehabilitation and economic empowerment.
• To develop and provide low cost assistive/supportive appliances through appropriate technology to meet the needs of Persons with Disabilities especially in the rural community.
• To network with the Government and other partners to effectively co-ordinate activities targeting Persons with Disabilities to minimize duplication of services.
• To promote formation of grassroots groups of Persons with disabilities to increase their self-confidence to achieve full participation in their communities and attain equal rights.

SERVICES OFFERED BY APDK

1. Outreach Program (Mobile Clinics):   APDK has a schedule of clinics to attend to PWDs in Communities and its entry points being health facilities. This is where the following is done.
2. Assessment of persons with special needs
3. Health Education and awareness Creation
4. Social mobilization and camps
5. Measurement /fixing of supportive appliances

Disability Prevention: The branch works with different partners in prevention of various disabilities.  APDK and Hope Walks in Clubfoot management through Ponsentti procedure, APDK & Cure International in Orthopaedic Surgeries and management, APDK & Bethany Kids in Neuro cases management. All these partners have Memorandum of Understanding with Kisii Teaching & Referral Hospital.

2. Rehabilitation Services: Through the rehabilitation departments (Orthopaedic, Occupational & and Physiotherapy departments) the branch provides various rehabilitation services, including

Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and assistive devices provision.  These services are designed to help individuals with disabilities improve their mobility functionality and overall quality of life.

4. Assistive Devices:  The branch plays a pivotal role in distributing assistive devices such as wheelchairs, crutches, prosthetics and orthotics.  These devices are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, enabling them to regain independence and engage in daily activities.
5. Awareness and Advocacy: The branch actively participates in raising awareness about the rights and needs of people with physical disabilities.  By advocating for inclusive policies and programs, the Branch contributes to creating a more accessible and equitable society to everyone.
6. Capacity Building: The Branch provides training and capacity-building programs for both individuals with disabilities and their caregivers.  These programs aim to enhance skills knowledge, and resources that contribute to the self-sufficiency and empowerment of people with disabilities.
7. Community Integration: The branch encourages social integration and community participation for people with disabilities.  Through various initiatives, they strive to reduce stigma, create understanding, and foster a sense of belonging within the community.
8. Disability Assessments: APDK works with National Council for Persons with Disabilities and Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital in assessments of Disabilities and registration for persons with disabilities.  The assessments is done every Tuesday at APDK Premises.

UNIQE FACILITIES

APDK, Kisii Branch provides a range of specialized facilities and equipment to support the needs of people with disabilities. Some of the unique facilities and specialized equipment available at APDK Kisii Branch include:

1. Orthopedic Workshop: APDK Kisii has an orthopedic workshop where various orthopedic appliances and assistive devices such as prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices are fabricated and fitted. The workshop is equipped with specialized tools and machinery to ensure the highest quality products.
2. Mobility Aid: APDK Kisii has a well-stocked mobility aid center where individuals can access a wide range of assistive devices such as crutches, walking frames and wheelchairs. The orthopedic workshop provides maintenance and repair services for these devices.
3. Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) Program: APDK Kisii runs a Community Based Rehabilitation Program aimed at reaching out to individuals with disabilities in rural areas. The program provides home-based therapy, advocacy, and empowerment for people with disabilities who may face challenges accessing the main APDK facility.
4. Training and Education: APDK Kisii organizes various training and education programs for individuals with disabilities, their families, and the community at large. These programs aim to raise awareness about various disabilities, promote inclusive practices, and empower individuals with disabilities through skills development and capacity building.

The availability of these specialized facilities and equipment at APDK Kisii Branch ensures that individuals with disabilities can access the necessary support, resources, and services to enhance their quality of life and promote their inclusion in society.

BRANCH ACHIEVEMENTS

The APDK Kisii Branch has achieved the following:

1. The branch has been recognized as the best in reporting and received an award for their excellent reporting practices.
2. The branch is also known for supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities. They have produced a remarkable person with a disability who successfully modified a motorbike into a three-wheeled motorcycle, making it more comfortable and accessible for persons with disabilities. This innovative adaptation earned the individual a prestigious Malaika Award.