Residents of Kirigiti turned out in large numbers to witness the historic launch of the proposed Kirigiti Primary School, a project that finally brings formal learning closer home for hundreds of children in the area.
The launch, officiated by the Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki, marks the end of a long wait for Kirigiti, which for years had remained the only location in the Kiambu Constituency without a primary school.
Children from the area have had to walk approximately two kilometres to Kiuu River Primary School, Kiambu Primary School or Riabai Primary School to access education.
Officiating the ceremony, the Deputy President hailed the project as a demonstration of what partnership between the national government and local leadership can achieve for grassroots development.
“Education is the surest path out of poverty, and no child should have to walk long distances to access it. This school is a promise kept to the people of Kirigiti, and I am glad to see the community rallying behind it. The government remains committed to taking essential services closer to the people,” Kindiki said.
The construction will be undertaken by the State Department for Housing and Urban Planning under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme in Kiambu Constituency.
The area MP, Machua Waithaka, who was credited by residents for lobbying tirelessly to secure the project, said he had directed the contractor to give priority to local residents when sourcing labour once construction begins.
“I have instructed the contractor to prioritise our own people when hiring workers so that this project uplifts the community in more ways than one,” the MP said.
For too long our children have risked their safety walking long distances to school. Today we correct that, and I thank the Deputy President for honouring our invitation and standing with the people of Kirigiti,” he said.
Residents who attended the event were full of praise for the area MP, saying his persistent lobbying had delivered a facility they had sought for decades.
“We have waited many years for a school of our own, and today our prayers have been answered; our children will no longer cross busy roads and the river to learn. We are grateful to our MP for not giving up on us,” said Mary Kibandi, a resident from Kirigiti.
Parents said the new school would ease the financial and safety burdens that came with sending young learners far from home and expressed optimism that enrolment in the area would rise once classes commence.
Local leaders called on the community to safeguard the facility and support the contractor to ensure the project is completed on schedule.
By Kipkorir Felix and Grace Naishoo
