In November 2025, Mount Elgon Trust (MET) launched the construction of a dedicated special needs school, alongside the development of a comprehensive support programme. This initiative aims to empower children with special needs within the community, giving them a stronger start in life through an integrated approach that combines education with therapeutic care. The Andersen Special Needs School will focus on supporting children with both intellectual and physical disabilities.
To address the significant accessibility challenges faced by many children, MET has incorporated a boarding facility into the school design. A large number of children with physical disabilities are unable to walk, travel independently, or do so safely. Many live in mountainous and remote areas that are only accessible by motorbike or on foot. For these children—particularly those who cannot sit unsupported—daily travel is often unsafe or simply not feasible. Others live too far from the school to commute, have limited mobility that restricts regular travel, or come from families who are unable to afford transport.
Through its community network, working closely with nine neighbouring villages, MET—together with community health workers and project team members—identified children and young adults in need of support. In total, 62 children and young adults, as well as one elderly woman, have been assessed. We would like thanks mister Dismas, the physiotherapist of Andersen Medical clinic - and miss Phiep Nieuwenhuis, occupational therapist at LIBRA rehabilition centre in the Netherlands for their time and effort to help assess the children.
The school is currently under construction and is expected to open in 2026. The building of this school has been made possible through the generous support of customers of AnsvarRosen, in partnership with Mount Elgon Orchards.
