By Francis Kioko.
Date 9th June 2024
The national celebration of the Day of the African Child was held with great fervor at Ithookwe Primary School in Kitui Constituency. Governor Dr. Julius Malombe of Kitui County delivered an impassioned speech emphasizing the urgent need for quality education for every African child. The event saw the presence of key figures including Bartholomew Lumbasi, representing Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu, Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani, and several County Executive Committee Members (CECMs), among others.
Under the theme “Education for All Children of Africa: The Time is Now,” Governor Malombe highlighted the critical role of education in shaping the future of the continent’s children. He underscored that every child, irrespective of their background, deserves access to quality education.
“Education extends beyond textbooks and classwork,” said Governor Malombe. “Children need to be heard and given the time to hone their talents. Education is a powerful tool for empowerment, enabling children to become architects of the future.”
Governor Malombe recalled the tragic history commemorated by this day, marking the 1976 Soweto Uprising where young students in South Africa were killed for demanding better education under apartheid rule. He noted that poverty and conflict continue to cast shadows over many children’s lives, depriving them of educational opportunities.
Kitui County has made significant strides in enhancing educational infrastructure. Since Governor Malombe took office after the 2022 general elections, 195 Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) classes have been constructed, with plans for 40 more in the 2023/2024 financial year, each equipped with 10,000-liter water tanks. Additionally, the county allocates Ksh 600 million annually to pay ECDE teachers, ensuring a solid foundation for the county’s youngest learners.
Several vocational training centers have also been established across Kitui to equip children with technical skills necessary for income generation. Governor Malombe emphasized the importance of these efforts in tackling poverty and fostering economic growth within the county.
Bartholomew Lumbasi, representing the Education CS, pledged the ministry’s commitment to improving education for all Kenyan children, ensuring they receive the necessary resources for quality learning regardless of their background.
Governor Malombe concluded by urging the children of Kitui to work hard and realize their educational aspirations. He commended the county’s high literacy level but stressed the need for continued efforts to lower it further. “Through education, we can light up our families and spur the economic growth of Kitui County,” he stated.
Kitui’s proactive measures in education, including the allocation of land for rescue centers in Mwingi North and Kitui South, were highlighted as part of the county’s dedication to ensuring accessible education for all children. The event was a vibrant showcase of themed songs and entertainment pieces by students from various Kitui County schools, embodying the spirit and potential of the region’s youth.
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