MOMBASA County-Jan 3, 2025- Kongowea Ward MCA Sammy Mwaura has stepped in to support less fortunate families by providing essential school items to students preparing to join senior schools when learning resumes next week.
The initiative involves the distribution of metal boxes, blankets, stationery, and other basic school requirements to learners from vulnerable households within the Ward, targeting a critical transition period that often locks out students from continuing their education.
Speaking during the exercise, Mwaura said the move was informed by the economic hardships facing many families in Kongowea, noting that he is fully aware of the financial strain parents are currently experiencing.
“I am purchasing these requirements so that at least I can ease the heavy burden our parents are carrying. When we unite with parents and co-share school responsibilities, especially during these hard economic times, no student will be left at home,” said Mwaura.
The MCA further called on the national government to review and increase capitation to public schools, arguing that while tuition may be covered, parents are still overwhelmed by the cost of personal effects and learning materials required before reporting to school.
Parents who benefited from the initiative welcomed the support, describing it as timely relief at a moment when many households are struggling to meet school reporting deadlines. Josephine Bahati, a parent whose daughter Britney is set to join Waa Girls Senior School in Kwale County, said the assistance had lifted a significant burden off her shoulders.
“It’s not that he has taken away the entire burden, but with such a gesture, we feel recognized and supported by our local leader,” she said.
Another parent, Mr Kassim Lugwe, whose son Moses Marhaba is also transitioning to senior school, praised the MCA’s intervention, noting that such leadership has become increasingly rare.
“Leaders who truly advance the needs of their electorates are minimal in our communities today. We appeal to other local leaders to prioritise education and support families, especially during difficult economic times,” Lugwe said.
The initiative comes amid growing concerns over the rising cost of education, particularly in urban Wards where poverty continues to threaten school retention and completion rates. Education stakeholders warn that without targeted support, many students risk delayed reporting or dropping out altogether.
