Wycliffe Nderema, a 40-year-old resident of Shibuli village in Lurambi Constituency, Kakamega County, has transformed brickmaking into a vital source of income after losing his sight in childhood.
At age 13, while attending Ebuchinga Primary School, Nderema's vision rapidly deteriorated due to an undiagnosed illness. Despite multiple tests at Kaimosi Eye Hospital, doctors could not determine the cause of his permanent blindness.
Following this, his mother enrolled him in a school for the blind where he acquired Braille literacy and vocational skills including shoe repair, brickmaking, and farming. These skills have enabled Nderema to live independently and provide for his family.
Building a livelihood through brickmaking and farming
For over ten years, Nderema has earned a living making bricks, which helps pay school fees for his three children and covers daily expenses. He also cultivates vegetables and maize to supplement the family’s food and income.
He navigates his environment using his other senses such as hearing, touch, and smell, allowing him to work effectively despite his blindness.
Family support and community appeal
Nderema’s mother, Phylis Omusanga, recalls the challenges following his sudden loss of sight and the efforts she made, including consulting a traditional herbalist, though the blindness remained irreversible.
She encourages parents not to hide children with disabilities but to provide them with education and skills to foster independence.
Nderema has appealed to well-wishers and local leaders, including Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, for support in expanding his brickmaking business, specifically assistance in acquiring firewood, which is costly but essential for burning bricks.
“I will continue to use my hands and skills to improve my family’s life without begging,” Nderema stated, emphasizing his determination to sustain his household through honest work.
