It was a moment of joy and relief for over 9,000 students from needy families in Busia County after receiving new pairs of shoes donated by Because International in partnership with Dhamira Moja.
The donation, part of an ongoing anti-jigger and anti-stigma campaign, is aimed at restoring dignity among school-going children while promoting education in one of Kenya’s counties with the highest poverty levels.
According to Because International Director Sarah Hillie, the initiative targets learners from poor backgrounds who are often exposed to jigger infections due to lack of proper footwear. She said the program seeks to end the discrimination and absenteeism linked to the condition.
ALSO READ;
“This drive is about protecting children from jigger infections and ensuring they don’t feel isolated or stigmatized. Every child deserves the confidence to go to school without fear or shame,” Hillie said.
Her remarks were echoed by Dhamira Moja Director Sarah Martha, who noted that the program is not only about shoes but also about empowering communities through education.
“When children stay healthy and attend school regularly, we move a step closer to fighting poverty, ignorance, and illiteracy in Busia. This initiative is a foundation for a better, more hopeful generation,” Martha said.
Education officials and local leaders praised the effort, saying the donation would go a long way in improving attendance and performance among learners from vulnerable households. They also called on other organizations and well-wishers to join hands in supporting the county’s education and health programmes.
ALSO READ;
KUPPET Bungoma criticizes SHA rollout, demands better healthcare for teachers
Busia has for years struggled with jigger infestations, particularly in rural areas where many families cannot afford basic footwear. Health experts warn that the condition, if left untreated, leads to physical pain, infections, and severe psychological trauma that contributes to school dropouts.
The distribution exercise was carried out in several schools across the county, with beneficiaries expressing joy and gratitude to the donors. Many of them said the shoes would not only protect them from infection but also give them renewed confidence to attend school.
“I used to walk barefoot and my feet would hurt from jiggers, but now I can go to school comfortably,” said one pupil from Butula Sub-county.
The two organizations promised to expand the program to reach more learners across western Kenya, reaffirming their commitment to ensuring no child’s education is cut short by poverty or preventable diseases.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
