Kenol’s fast-growing population and the surge in real estate development have intensified the need for public amenities, particularly schools.
With the municipality acting as a gateway to the Mt. Kenya region, surrounding areas like Kagaa Sub-location have seen a rise in modern homes and land values, but access to essential services has lagged behind.
On Friday, residents celebrated a major milestone when they received the title deed to a 3-acre piece of land, purchased through the NG-CDF Maragua Constituency, for the expansion of the new Kamakuri Primary School.
The school, currently offering classes up to Grade 5, will now accommodate higher grades, additional classrooms, an administration block, and a play field.
“The area has really grown. Even the price of land has sharply gone up, and the population has increased, making schools a necessity. Now children won’t have to risk crossing the busy highway to access education,” said Joseph Mburu, a resident who has lived in Kenol for over 20 years.
Initially, this area was sparsely populated with less than ten shops. Today, it has grown exponentially. There was a real need for houses and schools, and this school is a relief for parents and pupils alike,” he added.
Parents expressed relief that their children will now have safer access to education.
“Previously, my child had to walk several kilometres to the nearest school, often crossing busy roads. Sometimes I had to carry my younger child on my back to ensure their safety,” said Rachael Wanjiru, a parent in the school
“This expansion will give our children a better environment to learn and grow,” she added.
Area Member of Parliament, Mary Wamaua, said the acquisition of the land was part of her ongoing commitment to expanding access to quality education.
“We recognised the need for more classroom space and facilities for our children. Today, we have issued the title deed for the 3-acre piece of land we purchased to expand the new Kamakuri Primary School, as education is a right for every child and should be accessible to each one of them,” she said.
“The land is worth Sh3.8 million. We plan to develop a field, additional classrooms, and an administration block. I urge parents to support and encourage their children’s education,” she added.
Wamaua emphasised that the school expansion will also reduce the risks children face when walking long distances seeking education in remote areas.
“Many children previously had to travel long distances to reach available schools, sometimes crossing busy highways. With this expansion, education will be closer to home, and students can focus more on learning than on the dangers of the journey.”
“Education is a shared responsibility. Parents, teachers, and the government must all play a role. We have made this investment for our children, and it is now up to the community to nurture it,” said MP Mary Wamaua.
Residents also believe the expansion will also spur further development in the area, including small businesses and improved infrastructure.
“As more families move here, demand for services like schools, shops, and health facilities increases. The expansion of Kamakuri Primary School is a step in the right direction,” said Esther Njeri, a long-time resident.
The newly acquired land is expected to accommodate a bigger population of learners in the near future and provide space for extracurricular facilities such as sports fields and recreational areas.
With the 3-acre expansion, the new Kamakuri Primary School is now set to become a modern educational hub, offering a safer and more conducive learning environment while supporting the town’s rapid urbanisation.
By Florence Kinyua
