By Francis Kioko.
Date 9th June 2024.
The air was filled with hopeful songs and vibrant energy as Ithookwe Primary School in Kitui Constituency played host to the launch of the Day of the African Child. The event, marked by colorful displays and heartfelt speeches, focused on the theme “Education for All Children of Africa: The Time is Now.”
Dr. Julius Malombe, Governor of Kitui County, addressed the gathering with a powerful speech emphasizing the urgent need for quality education for every child, regardless of their background. “Every child, irrespective of their socio-economic status, must have access to quality education,” he asserted, highlighting education as a fundamental right and a tool for empowerment.
The governor’s remarks drew attention to the persistent challenges of poverty and conflict that continue to cast long shadows over the lives of many African children. He underscored the significance of this day, commemorating the brave children of Soweto who were tragically killed during the apartheid era in South Africa while demanding better education.
“Education extends beyond textbooks and classwork,” Governor Malombe stated. “It is about nurturing the talents of our children, allowing them to be heard, and empowering them as the architects of our future.” He detailed the county’s investments in early childhood development and vocational training, aimed at equipping children with essential skills to overcome poverty and drive economic growth.
Since taking office after the 2022 general elections, Malombe’s administration has constructed 195 ECDE (Early Childhood Development Education) classes and plans to build 40 more in the 2023/2024 financial year, each equipped with 10,000-litre water tanks. Additionally, the county allocates Ksh 600 million annually to pay ECDE teachers, underscoring its commitment to early childhood education.
Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani, Kitui Central legislator Hon. Dr. Makali Mulu, and several County Executive Committee Members, including Fredrick Kimanga (Lands) and Mbaya Kimwele (Agriculture and Livestock), were present to lend their support. They were joined by numerous pupils and students from various Kitui County schools, who added to the festivities with themed songs and performances.
The celebration also saw Bartholomew Lumbasi, Director at the Ministry of Education, representing Education CS Ezekiel Machogu. Lumbasi reiterated the ministry’s dedication to ensuring quality education for all Kenyan children, promising to address any disparities in educational resources and opportunities.
Kitui’s selection as the host for this significant day was attributed to its proactive efforts in making education accessible to all its children. Governor Malombe urged the young attendees to work hard in their studies, emphasizing that education is a key weapon in the fight against poverty and a catalyst for personal and communal growth.
Highlighting the county’s high literacy levels, he vowed that his government would continue to strive tirelessly to enhance education accessibility. Plans are underway to establish rescue centers in Mwingi North and Kitui South, with land already allocated for these projects.
As the national celebrations for the Day of the African Child approach on June 16th at Mwatate Primary School in Taita Taveta County, Kitui’s initiatives stand as a testament to the transformative power of education. Governor Malombe’s vision underscores a future where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a brighter, more equitable Africa.
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