Journalists in Uasin Gishu County Mark World Press Freedom Day with CSR Drive Supporting Children with Disabilities
“As we examine the future of journalism in an AI-driven world, we must also remember the human stories,” said Gitaka. “Sparkling Haven reminds us of why journalism matters.”
Elvis Wasike, a member of the Uasin Gishu Journalists Association, distributes milk to children with autism at Sparkling Haven Centre in Langas
By Juliet Jerotich
Journalists in Uasin Gishu County, under the Uasin Gishu Journalists Association (UGJA), marked World Press Freedom Day by partnering with the Eldoret National Polytechnic, Transparency International, Uasin Gishu Civil Society Network, Yako Supermarket,Jora Supermaket, Mwangiz Beauty Parlour, businessman Zulfikar Osman, and the Eldoret business community for a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity at Sparkling Haven Foundation in Langas.
As part of the build-up to World Press Freedom Day, the journalists donated food, milk, and essential non-food items to the center, which supports children living with autism and cerebral palsy. This CSR initiative precedes a high-level roundtable panel scheduled for May 9, where journalists and stakeholders will discuss this year’s global theme ,with a special focus on the impact of artificial intelligence on press freedom and the media.
UGJA Chairperson James Gitaka said the initiative was part of the association’s long-standing commitment to combining journalism with community service.
“Press freedom isn’t just about newsrooms—it’s about using our voice to spotlight the underserved,” he said. “We’re proud to support children with special needs while advancing conversations around AI and media integrity.”
A Growing Need, A Struggling Facility
Sparkling Haven Foundation, located in Langas, provides therapy to children with developmental disabilities, including autism and cerebral palsy. As the number of children seeking services rises, so does the pressure on limited resources. The facility now serves over 20 children—but with only one physiotherapist, Gerald Chirchir, handling all therapy sessions.
“We began with just two children,” Chirchir shared. “Now, we’re treating 20, but I can only manage one session per child each week. Ideally, every child needs at least three.”
He called for urgent support in acquiring therapy equipment like sitting aids, standing aids, and photoplast materials used to create orthotic braces.
“These devices are critical for correcting posture and improving mobility, but most families here can’t afford them,” he said.
Jamal Karim, an international journalist and member of the Uasin Gishu Journalists Association, shares a light moment with a parent at Sparkling Haven Foundation.
Parents’ Voices and Community Support
Irine Akinyi, a mother of four, shared the emotional and social toll of raising a child with disabilities.
“The community often sees us as outcasts. But here, we feel seen,” she said. “We’re grateful for Sparkling Haven—even one therapy session a week makes a difference.”
Zulfikar Osman , a sponsor and supporter of the initiative, urged more residents and business leaders to step in.
“I applaud the journalists for shining a light on these children. Let’s not stop here—let’s help equip this center to do more.”
Autism and Cerebral Palsy in Kenya
According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) and Autism Awareness Kenya, an estimated 4% of Kenyan children live with a disability. Cerebral palsy and autism are among the most common, yet therapy services remain scarce, especially in public facilities. With high treatment costs and widespread stigma, access to support is often limited to urban centers and private institutions.
UGJA’s Continued Impact
The Uasin Gishu Journalists Association has consistently integrated public interest journalism with social advocacy. Over the years, the association has led mentorship programs in schools, held media literacy campaigns, and hosted forums on ethics, mental health, and digital safety in journalism.
This year’s World Press Freedom Day is not just about celebrating the right to report freely—it’s also about standing with those whose stories often go untold.
“As we examine the future of journalism in an AI-driven world, we must also remember the human stories,” said Gitaka. “Sparkling Haven reminds us of why journalism matters.”
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