By A, KNA
Kiambu County has finished a total of 312 modern Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) centres in the past two years, creating a conducive learning environment for thousands of young school-going children.
Each centre has been designed to mirror the quality of private kindergartens, featuring PP1 and PP2 classrooms, an administrative office, separate toilets for teachers and learners, and spacious play areas.
According to Governor Kimani Wamatangi, the project aims to ensure that every child in Kiambu gets a strong educational foundation.
“We are not just constructing classrooms; we are shaping the future of our children by providing them with quality learning environments from the very beginning,” Governor Wamatangi emphasised.
Beyond the completed 312 centres, construction of another 178 facilities is underway and is expected to be finalized by December. Once complete, Kiambu will have modernized all 524 ECDE centres in the county by April next year, a milestone that is set to redefine early childhood education standards in the region.
The initiative also goes beyond infrastructure. Every child enrolled in ECDE centres across Kiambu now receives free porridge daily, three boiled eggs weekly, and a packet of milk every Thursday. The county government also supplies free learning materials, significantly easing the financial burden on parents.
Parents and teachers have warmly welcomed the project, describing it as a timely intervention that guarantees equal opportunities for children regardless of their backgrounds. Mary Kamau, a parent, said the initiative has been a blessing for her family.
“This is a game-changer for our children, especially those from less privileged backgrounds. They now learn in dignified classrooms and enjoy free meals that keep them healthy and focused during the lessons,” she said.
Teachers also note that the nutrition program has improved class concentration and attendance. “When children are well-fed and happy, they learn better and parents are more motivated to bring them to school,” said Peter Kariuki, an ECDE teacher in Githunguri.
Education stakeholders believe the bold steps taken by Kiambu County will inspire other counties to follow suit.
The combination of modern infrastructure, free nutrition and learning materials is expected to increase enrolment and improve the overall quality of education.
With these investments, Kiambu County is positioning itself as a leader in early childhood education, ensuring that no child is left behind.
End/Education/Mwangi/Ongaga
Picture Captions by Agnes Karisa
EC 1: Young learners enjoying their free porridge provided daily under the county feeding program.
EC 2: A newly built ECDE centre in Kiambu County featuring modern classrooms and play facilities.
