Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru on Wednesday, May 6,2026 disbursed Ksh129.5 million in bursaries to support 48,000 needy students, to ensure no learner is locked out of school due to lack of fees.
Speaking during the disbursement exercise at the County Headquarters, the governor described the initiative as a critical milestone in investing in the future of the county’s children, noting that the beneficiaries span all levels of education.
Of the total recipients, 37,002 are secondary school students, 5,565 are in colleges, while 5,433 are pursuing university education, an approach she said reflects inclusivity and equity in access to learning.
The latest allocation, she said, pushes the county’s cumulative bursary disbursement to Ksh670.2 million since 2017, and marked a significant rise from the Ksh49.1 million allocated in the 2017/2018 financial year.
Waiguru said the steady increase underscores a deliberate effort by her administration to ease the financial burden on families while expanding educational opportunities.
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She revealed that the selection of beneficiaries was conducted through ward-level bursary committees, a system the county boss says ensures transparency and responsiveness to local needs.
“These committees understand the unique challenges faced by families in their communities and help us reach the most deserving cases,” she said.
Kirinyaga Central Member of Parliament (MP) Gachoki Gitari, speaking during the event, praised the governor’s consistency in supporting education, noting her role in safeguarding county bursary programme.
“I would like to thank Governor Waiguru for this initiative that has been vital in helping needy students across Kirinyaga over the years. She was also at the forefront of fighting against the directive that had stopped county governments from disbursing bursaries and because of her efforts, this programme was reinstated, and that is why we are able to support these students today.” MP said.
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Gitari also lauded the county’s ECDE uniform programme, terming it a transformative intervention for young learners, and added that the prayers of parents and beneficiaries continue to uplift the governor.
Murinduko Ward Member of County Assembly (MCA) and Education Committee Chairperson, Charles Nyaga Nyamu, described the disbursement as a turning point for many families.
“This is a great day in Kirinyaga. Education is the greatest equalizer and it can make you dine with kings,” he said. “I am a living example. I was once a needy student supported through education, and today I sit with leaders, including the governor. That is the power of education.” Said the MCA
Waiguru emphasized that education remains a central pillar of social transformation and economic empowerment. She urged beneficiaries to take their studies seriously, terming the bursary support as an investment in their future.
“As a county, we will continue to invest in education at all levels by nurturing the potential of our children and youth. We are laying the foundation for a more prosperous and equitable Kirinyaga.” Noted the governor.
By Jane Mugambi
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