School management committees and heads of institutions have been urged to give stronger support to scouting clubs, with leaders emphasising the movement’s role in shaping responsible citizens and equipping learners with practical life skills.
Speaking at Kisii Comprehensive School on Thursday after the conclusion of the Nyanza Region scouts competitions, Kisii Central Sub‑County Scouts Association Chairman Stephen Maraga said scouting goes far beyond outdoor activities, instilling discipline, accountability and resilience among young people.
Maraga, who also teaches at Kisii Comprehensive, noted that Kisii County secured second position in the regional contests, a performance that qualifies the county team for the National Scouts Competitions scheduled to begin on August 1. He described the achievement as proof of the movement’s growing strength in the region.
“Scouts help the youth in behavioural change, environmental care, self‑control, accountability and responsibility,” Maraga said. “They are also able to take care of their siblings and stand for the family in case of early death of parents because they have been equipped with life skills anchored on endurance and resilience.”
Tracing the history of scouting in Kenya, Maraga explained that the movement was introduced in 1910 during the colonial period and has since grown into one of the country’s largest youth organizations. Over the decades, scouts have played key roles in environmental conservation through tree planting and clean‑up campaigns, disaster response and first aid, mentoring youth on leadership and patriotism, and championing community service in schools and neighborhoods.
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He urged school administrators to allocate time, resources and space for scouting activities, stressing that learners involved in the movement are more likely to grow into citizens who respect others, care for the environment and serve their communities with integrity.
Maraga further revealed that his office is advancing plans to partner with the County Government’s Department of Disaster Management and the Kenya Red Cross to strengthen scouting services locally and nationally. He said such collaborations would enhance the movement’s capacity to support communities during emergencies and expand its reach across the country.
He concluded by calling on parents, teachers and community leaders to work together in supporting scouting in schools, noting that collective effort would ensure more young people benefit from the values of discipline, leadership and service that the movement promotes.
By Enock Okong’o
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