University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, Chair the Love, and Nandi County Transform Lives Through the Distribution of 159 Wheelchairs
The University of Eastern Africa, Baraton (UEAB), in partnership with Chair the Love and the County Government of Nandi, successfully distributed 159 wheelchairs to persons with disabilities during a life-changing humanitarian outreach held at the university campus in Nandi County.
The initiative, which brought together community leaders, government officials, university administrators, and beneficiaries from across the county, sought to restore dignity, enhance mobility, and improve the quality of life of persons living with disabilities.
Among the distinguished guests was Mr. Augie Byllott, one of the Directors of Chair the Love, who, together with six other members of the Chair the Love team, traveled from the United States of America to participate in the event. Chair the Love is the foundation responsible for sourcing and providing the wheelchairs distributed during the outreach, making a significant contribution to improving the lives of persons with disabilities around the world. Through the partnership between Chair the Love, the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, and the County Government of Nandi, 159 beneficiaries received wheelchairs, restoring mobility, independence, dignity, and hope to individuals and families across the region.
The presence of the Chair the Love delegation demonstrated the foundation’s commitment to humanitarian service and its mission of transforming lives through the gift of mobility. Their journey from the United States to Nandi County reflected the power of international partnerships in addressing local community needs and creating lasting impact.
A key figure behind the success of this collaboration is Prof. Catherine Amimo, a lecturer at the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton. Prof. Amimo played an instrumental role in establishing and nurturing the partnership between the University and Chair the Love. Through her vision, dedication, and commitment to community service, she helped create the connection that has enabled hundreds of persons with disabilities to benefit from the gift of mobility. Her efforts have strengthened the relationship between the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton and Chair the Love, paving the way for impactful initiatives that continue to transform lives across Kenya.
The event was graced by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, Prof. Msafiri M. Jackson, who warmly welcomed guests and beneficiaries. In his presentation to the congregation, including wheelchair recipients and their families, Prof. Jackson highlighted the university’s commitment to holistic service, community engagement, and partnerships that uplift vulnerable members of society. He expressed gratitude to Chair the Love and its leadership, as well as Prof. Catherine Amimo, for their commitment to making a lasting impact on the lives of many families.
During his address, Prof. Jackson also expressed his sincere appreciation to the President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, for fulfilling his commitment to support infrastructure development at the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton through the allocation of KSh 60 million towards the construction of the School of Health Sciences and Nursing Building. He noted that the project will significantly enhance the University’s capacity to train healthcare professionals and strengthen healthcare education in Kenya.
The Vice Chancellor further acknowledged the pivotal role played by H.E., EGH Hon. Stephen Arap Sang, Governor of Nandi County, whose support and advocacy were instrumental in ensuring that the funds pledged by the President were successfully channeled to the University. Prof. Jackson also extended gratitude to the leadership of the Seventh-day Adventist Church for their unwavering support, engagement, and follow-up efforts that contributed significantly to the realization of the project. He emphasized that the collective efforts of the national government, county leadership, and church leaders demonstrate the power of collaboration in advancing educational excellence and expanding opportunities for future healthcare professionals.
The Chief Guest, H.E., EGH Hon. Stephen Arap Sang, Governor of Nandi County, commended the partnership between the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, Chair the Love, and the County Government of Nandi. In his inspiring address, Governor Sang praised the university for its continued contribution to education, community service, and regional development. He emphasized the importance of collaborative initiatives that address the needs of vulnerable populations and improve access to essential support services.
Governor Sang further reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with both the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton and Chair the Love, pledging full support for future programs aimed at improving the welfare of persons with disabilities and other disadvantaged groups within the county.
Also present was H.E. Dr. Yulita Mitei Cheruiyot, the Deputy Governor of Nandi County, who joined the Governor in expressing the county leadership’s commitment to supporting the partnership. She noted that the collaboration between the County Government of Nandi, the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, and Chair the Love serves as a model for how institutions can work together to create meaningful and sustainable change in society.
The distribution of 159 wheelchairs marked a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to promote inclusion, accessibility, and empowerment for persons with disabilities. For many beneficiaries, the wheelchairs represent not only improved mobility but also renewed hope, independence, and opportunities for greater participation in community life.
As the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton continues to pursue its mission of transforming lives through education and service, the institution remains committed to building strategic partnerships that advance human dignity, compassion, and social responsibility. The success of this initiative stands as a powerful testament to what can be achieved when educational institutions, humanitarian organizations, and government leaders unite in service to humanity.
