The people of Turkana, Kenya, have endured a prolonged drought. Hunger and scarcity are on the rise, and so too are feelings of hopelessness — especially for those living with a disability.

Simon Lochor Amojong knows this reality firsthand.

When survival feels out of reach

Wheelchair‑bound Simon, a married father of three, was born and raised in Shanti Village in Turkana South. A self‑taught beader, he relied on what he earned making and selling shanga (necklaces) to support his family. But the income was never enough to meet even their most basic needs. As the drought worsened, his situation became increasingly desperate.

Eventually, Simon’s family left in search of survival elsewhere, and he began to depend entirely on his neighbours. He recalls, “I lived hand‑to‑mouth as the little I got from my beading was not enough for my very basic needs … my shanga‑making business would barely bring me 100 KES ($1.10 CAD) per day.”

A turning point in Turkana

When World Renew began a food distribution program in Turkana focused on people living with disabilities, older adults, orphans, and others most at risk, Simon experienced it as a turning point in his life. Each month, families received staple foods that helped them meet immediate needs and regain stability during the height of the drought.

For Simon, this support restored both his strength and his sense of dignity. There was enough food to feed his family, and in time, his wife and children returned home. Just as importantly, programme staff encouraged Simon to look beyond survival and rediscover his potential.

Restoring dignity, rebuilding a future

With guidance and encouragement, Simon began cultivating a half‑acre of irrigated land that had long been left unattended. He planted maize, tomatoes, cowpeas, and other crops, while also reviving his shanga business. Slowly, his situation began to change.

Today, the income from farming and beadwork allows Simon to care for his family once again — paying school fees, buying uniforms, and covering household necessities. Reflecting on the journey, he says simply, “This project brought hope to my life.”

Simon’s story is a reminder that when immediate needs are met and people are supported to build on their own strengths, hope can take root again — even after seasons of deep hardship.