The Agocares Foundation for Persons with Disabilities says plans are underway to commence distribution of free artificial limbs to 300 amputees in Anambra State to help restore their mobility.
The Chairperson of the foundation, Mrs Gloria Katchy, told the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Awka, that amputation was a serious issue that had stolen the joy and livelihood of many amputees.
Katchy said the free artificial limbs would help the beneficiaries regain mobility and function well in society.
“Artificial limbs are expensive, costing about N950,000 to N1.8 million, which is unaffordable by the underprivileged.
“Many of them use crutches and wheelchairs, which are cumbersome and deter them from living normal lives. The artificial limbs function almost as perfectly as the limbs that have been lost.
“Our foundation will commence measurements for amputees in Anambra state on Tuesday, 20 and 21 February at the Disability Rights Commission at the Prof. Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka,” she said.
Katchy said there would be counselling and education about limb loss to deter stigmatisation of amputees.
