FCBH Monitoring in Muranga County.

The Bible Society of Kenya recently conducted a three-day monitoring initiative in Muranga County from April 24th to 26th, 2024, focusing on individuals with visual impairments. This outreach effort targeted various villages including Kigumo, Kamukabi, Karega, Githima, Kiugu, Hungu, Turuturu, and Mathareini.

Purpose and Impact

The primary objective of this visit was to assess the status and impact of the Audio Bibles distributed to visually impaired individuals between 2019 and 2023. These individuals are part of a group known as Visionary Visually Impaired, established in January 2022 to foster community among those with visual disabilities and facilitate access to resources from organizations and government entities.

Background and Support

The group received Audio Bibles from Pastor John Karanja, who first connected with the Bible Society of Kenya during his tenure as a chaplain at Kigumo Bendera High School. Pastor Karanja’s encounter with a blind teacher at the school sparked the initiative to provide access to Audio Bibles. Subsequently, in 2019, Pastor Karanja facilitated the distribution of 37 Audio Bibles to visually impaired individuals through the Bible Society of Kenya.

Challenges and Support Needs

During the visit, it was observed that all the visually impaired individuals visited had lost their sight as adults due to various reasons such as Meningitis, Pressure, Diabetes, Eye injuries, and Drugs. Many of them are struggling to adapt to their new circumstances, with some being primary providers for their families. The loss of sight has significantly impacted their livelihoods, leading to economic challenges.

Future Initiatives

Considering the challenges faced by these individuals, there is a growing need for additional support programs to help them adjust, accept themselves, and receive education on activities that can enhance their quality of life. The Bible Society of Kenya has been approached with a request to consider developing programs that cater to these specific needs and empower visually impaired individuals in their daily lives.

Testimonies

Judith Wangeci expressed her gratitude for receiving her Gikuyu Talking Bible from the Bible Society of Kenya (BSK), stating, “I was greatly excited to receive it as it addressed my challenge of needing assistance with reading. Now, I can listen independently without aid. I particularly enjoy the story of the prodigal son from the book of Luke. Initially, I faced difficulties in selecting books of the Bible and locating the charging port during power outages. I thought it was damaged, but now I am proficient in operating and charging it.”

Hezron Thiong’o shared his experience, mentioning, “I lost my sight in 2019 at an advanced age and I listen to the Gikuyu Audio Bible daily, progressing chapter by chapter. I am actively involved in teaching choir to children and imparting the word of God to them. My home has transformed into a hub resembling a Sunday School, as children enjoy gathering here to listen to the Audio Bible.”

This monitoring initiative not only assessed the impact of the Audio Bibles but also shed light on the broader challenges faced by visually impaired individuals in Muranga County, highlighting the importance of continued support and community engagement.