This archive report was first published on 2 July 2020.
Mombasa Woman Injured in Government Vehicle Accident Seeks Assistance ¶
Published on July 2, 2020
Fatuma Omar Mnemo, an elderly woman from Mtongwe in Mombasa County, is confined to her bed after being knocked down by a speeding government vehicle 10 months ago.
According to Mnemo, the accident left her immobile and dependent on others for her daily needs. She has been finding it challenging to access medical care due to her limited mobility and the lack of support from her family members.
Mnemo's adopted granddaughter, who was taking care of her, got married and left her alone. She has been relying on her neighbor, Mildred Odinga, for assistance, but Odinga is not always available to help.
"I was walking from the shop to my house when a speeding vehicle hit and knocked me down as the driver sped off. I was taken to a dispensary that day and left to go home the following day when I was still in pain," Mnemo narrated.
She added that she has been struggling to find help, including assistance with basic needs such as using the toilet, as she is unable to move around.
"I have rich relatives. One of my nieces is an MP but they have forgotten about me," Mnemo said, as she touched the painful wounds on her back.
Her neighbor, Odinga, confirmed that Mnemo's accident was reported at Likoni Police Station but was only mentioned in court once due to Mnemo's limited mobility.
"Since she was alone and couldn't present herself in court, the case was put aside," Odinga said.
A women's self-help group, Inua Maisha ya Mama Mashinani, visited Mnemo and offered her food and pledged to take her to the hospital. They appealed to well-wishers to intervene and help give the octogenarian a sustainable solution, such as monthly stipends.
Gladys Chepkoech, the leader of the group, also appealed to Mnemo's adopted granddaughter to volunteer and be her caregiver, saying they were willing to find a way to support her and her little baby.
