Miss Amputee Kenya Diana Nanjala Leads Inspiring Visit to Children’s Home, Launches Major Fundraiser for Prosthetics

 In a powerful display of compassion, resilience, and advocacy, reigning Miss Amputee Kenya Diana Nanjala led a group of fellow amputees to Jesus Love Children’s Home in Eldoret over the weekend, turning what began as a modest visit into a heartfelt movement of hope and purpose.

The visit, which brought smiles and laughter to dozens of children, was more than just a charity event — it was a message to the world: that persons living with disabilities are not limited by their physical challenges and can lead impactful, fulfilling lives just like anyone else.

“We came here to celebrate love and to remind these children that they matter,” said Diana Nanjala during the event. “We have cooked lunch with them, sat and shared meals together. This is not just about feeding them — it’s about creating memories and showing them that they are loved.”

The team of amputees spent the day engaging with the children — cooking, dancing, storytelling, and spreading joy. But behind the warmth and celebration lies a more urgent mission: raising funds to provide prosthetic limbs to amputees across the North Rift region, many of whom are living without the mobility and independence a prosthetic can bring.

A Mission With a Purpose: The Mr. and Miss Amputee North Rift Region Pageant

The visit served as part of the build-up to the upcoming Mr. and Miss Amputee North Rift Region pageant, set to be held on August 9, 2025, at Boma Inn Hotel in Eldoret. The event is not only a celebration of beauty, talent, and resilience, but also a strategic fundraiser, with the team aiming to raise KSh 2.5 million to support amputees in acquiring much-needed prosthetics.

According to Nanjala, the cost of a prosthetic limb is prohibitively high for most. A below-the-knee prosthesis costs about KSh 120,000, while above-the-knee prosthetics range from KSh 400,000 to over KSh 1 million, depending on complexity and material.

“That is why we’re organizing this pageant,” Nanjala explained. “To raise awareness and also to raise funds. We are calling on well-wishers, corporate sponsors, NGOs, and even prosthetics manufacturers to support us — financially or in kind. Every donation, no matter how small, can help change someone’s life.”

Living Proof of Strength Beyond Stigma

Among those present was Peris Daisy Jepkosgei, an amputee who lost her leg during the 2007 post-election violence. For her, the day’s event was deeply personal.

“We’ve come here because we love these children,” Jepkosgei said. “As amputees, we often face stigma. People look at us with pity, or worse — as if we’re incapable. Today, we’re here to challenge that narrative.”

She emphasized that amputees need support — not sympathy — to thrive. “Our biggest challenge is sponsorship and awareness. Events like the one we are planning help us change perceptions, and that’s what we need.”

Fellow amputee Kelvin Mukhwana echoed the call for financial and policy support, urging the government to consider subsidizing the cost of prosthetic limbs to make them accessible.

“We want the government to step in and help us. These legs are not a luxury — they’re a necessity. Without them, it’s hard to work, move, or even live with dignity.”

Breaking Barriers for the Next Generation

The group also called on parents of children living with disabilities not to hide them, but instead empower and support them.

“We urge parents to stop hiding their children,” said Soul Mangiti, another amputee and community advocate. “Disability is not inability. Children can learn skills — sewing, shoemaking, even sports. All they need is a chance.”

Mangiti also appealed to Uasin Gishu Governor Jonathan Bii to support amputees through sports programs, vocational training, and job creation. “Give us the platform to compete, to earn a living, and to inspire others,” he said.

A Home of Love, A Community of Hope

Bishop Wilson Kurui, founder of Jesus Love Ministries and caretaker of the children’s home, welcomed the team and expressed gratitude for their selfless gesture. The home, located on the outskirts of Eldoret, houses children rescued from the streets, orphans, and those from vulnerable families.

“This is a rare and beautiful act,” Bishop Kurui said. “These young men and women came here despite their own challenges and poured their hearts out for our children. We thank them and encourage others to support this initiative.”

The home currently supports over 90 children, including 10 in college, 30 in secondary school, and 55 in primary school. Kurui appealed to well-wishers and the government for more support in feeding, educating, and mentoring the children.

“What Diana and her team are doing is extraordinary. They’ve shown our children that anything is possible — and for that, we are truly grateful.”

From Awareness to Action

This visit follows a series of advocacy events organized by the amputee community, including a public clean-up exercise in Eldoret town last week, aimed at creating awareness around disability inclusion and challenging public perceptions about people living with physical disabilities.

The upcoming Mr. and Miss Amputee North Rift Region pageant will be open to the public, with performances, inspirational stories, and a showcase of talent and beauty from across the region.

“This is about celebrating who we are,” said Nanjala. “We may have lost limbs, but we have not lost our dreams.”

Call to Action

As the countdown to August 9 continues, the organizers are appealing to individuals, corporations, NGOs, and government agencies to support their cause.

“We are not asking for handouts — we are asking for a hand up,” Nanjala concluded. “Together, we can give hope, mobility, and a future to those who need it most.”