Purity Kandie, a 19-year-old student at Kitale Special School, was awarded the Soya award for Best Sportswoman with a Disability for her remarkable achievements in athletics.
Kandie, from Naisambu, Kiminini sub-county, broke the world record in the 50-meter dash at the World Special Olympic Games held in Berlin, Germany, last year.
She is also the Paralympic gold medalist in the same event.
Her mother, Anne Kandie, a public health officer at the County Government of Trans Nzoia’s Department of Health, attributed her daughter’s success to God, Kandie’s hard work and perseverance, the support of her coach Rhoda Kitan, and the Soya award organizers.
She also praised the government’s sports department and the Soya award organizers for recognizing and encouraging athletes.
“It gives them a sense of appreciation and motivates them to excel further, both nationally and internationally,” she said.
Children with disabilities are a blessing
Kandie further urged parents of children with disabilities not to discriminate against them.
“They are a blessing, just like any other child,” she said. “Expose them to the world, take them to school, and involve them in sports activities. You never know, they might become champions in their own right, just like my Purity.”
Channel Kittony, the Trans Nzoia County Executive for Sports, Gender, Culture, and Tourism, assured support for children with special needs to participate in sports and develop their talents.
“These children have hidden talents that can be nurtured for income generation and social inclusion,” she said.
“Purity’s well-deserved victory is a testament to her hard work and the immense potential of individuals with disabilities. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and wish her the very best in her future endeavors.”
