Under the Chemwochi Hills in Kapenguria, overlooking the beauty of Mt. Elgon, the plains of Kacheliba, the terrains of Chepareria and the rich forests of the Cherangani Hills, lies Tampalal Sub-location along the Makutano–Kacheliba road.
It is in this area that the homestead of grandmother Cheptangat Lorungangole, popularly known as “Ko Loktari,” is located.
Ko Loktari was born in the Chemwochi area before later migrating to Tampalal after marriage.
She narrates that a dowry of 50 cows was paid to her parents because she was considered a beautiful lady, as required by culture during marriage arrangements.
In her marriage, she was blessed with seven children.
On May 22, 2026, Ko Loktari made history in West Pokot County as she celebrated her 100th birthday.
Two of her grandchildren from Tampalal Comprehensive School — Kennedy Kiptum of Grade 8 and Damaris Chebet of Grade 7 — led their classmates during lunchtime to celebrate the historic occasion with their grandmother.
The learners, accompanied by their CRE teacher Silas Kibore, visited her home where the elderly woman warmly welcomed them with smiles and visible joy.
Ko Loktari currently stays with one of her daughters-in-law, who takes care of her.
Reflections on the past
After Kibore led prayers, the grandmother began narrating stories about the past, including the fertile lands they once cultivated compared to modern-day land which she said has been polluted by waste.
She also recalled the clean water that used to flow from forests, free from impurities, unlike today’s rivers which she described as polluted.
Ko Loktari further spoke about the long distances people walked to markets in the past, saying the journeys helped keep them physically fit.
In addition, she praised the natural vegetables and fresh foods they consumed from their farms.
The jovial grandmother said her favourite meal remains ugali and milk, popularly known among the Kalenjin community as mursik.
She also enjoys traditional vegetables such as managu.
Although she never attended school because schools were scarce during her childhood, Ko Loktari strongly encouraged parents in the area to educate their children.
Despite her declining hearing and eyesight, she still communicates well through an interpreter.
Learners celebrate with gifts
At around 1:30 p.m., the learners sang a happy birthday song for the centenarian and presented gifts including soap, sugar, lesos and a blanket.
The learners also cleaned the compound by sweeping and burning litter collected in the dustbin.
“Charity begins at school, as Jesus said, ‘Love your neighbour as you love yourself,” said Mr ibore.
READ ALSO: How rising school costs are reshaping education fee debate
The grandmother, Cheptangat Lorungangole “Ko Loktari,” expressed happiness and wished the learners success in their education.
By Martin Ruto
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
