John Akidiva

John Akidiva Andefa, a disabled widower from Al-Karim, Kakamega County, has faced a lifetime of hardship and perseverance. Born with a physical disability, he has spent his life navigating challenges that many take for granted.
Despite his struggles, John built a family with his late wife, and together, they were blessed with four daughters. However, in 2022, tragedy struck when his wife passed away, leaving him to raise their children alone. With no stable source of income, he found himself trapped in a cycle of poverty, unable to provide for his family’s most basic needs.

For years, John has relied on repairing bicycles in Kakamega town as his primary source of income. However, with the increasing use of motorcycles for transport—being faster and safer than bicycles—his business has drastically declined. On a good day, he earns around KES 100, but on many days, he makes even less—or nothing at all.

With no alternative source of income, he struggles to pay rent for their small mabati house, provide food, school fees, and other basic necessities. His children are still young and fully dependent on him, making it even harder for him to sustain the household.

One of his daughters married at a young age, hoping for a better life. Unfortunately, her situation is no different, and she now relies on her father for everything, adding to John’s already overwhelming responsibilities.
As the sole provider for his family, John faces numerous barriers that make survival even more difficult. His physical disability limits his ability to take on alternative jobs, and like many persons with disabilities, he suffers from social stigma, discrimination, and economic exclusion.

Healthcare remains another significant challenge. Without a steady income, he has struggled to afford medical care, and his worsening health conditions have only made it more difficult for him to work.

Recognizing his dire situation, John was enrolled in the Mama Ibado Charity (MIC) seniors' feeding program in August 2019. Since then, he has been receiving monthly food rations, which have lightened his burden and provided some stability for his family.

Additionally, John benefits from MIC’s healthcare program, ensuring that he receives treatment and medication for his health conditions. Though his struggles are far from over, this support has helped him regain some strength and hope.
John’s determination to provide for his family remains unwavering, but he cannot do it alone. His livelihood is fading, his health is declining, and his children’s future remains uncertain.

“I wake up every day hoping for a way to provide for my family. The support I receive keeps us going, but I still dream of a time when my children will not have to struggle like I have,” he shares.