Learners from Witeithie in Juja sub-County, Kiambu County who were affected by the recent floods that ravaged several parts of the country are yet to report to school due to lack of basic school items.
The students from various schools within the expansive ward do not have books, uniforms and other essential since they were washed away by the floods, according to Joseph Wawer, a Nyumba Kumi elder in the area.
He said most families come from impoverished backgrounds and cannot afford to replace the items, making it difficult for the learners to report back to school.
“There are many families who affected by the flooding menace and their children lost their school gears and books to the floods. Most of them hail from poor backgrounds and cannot raise the money required to buy the items. They are still at home while other learners are continuing with their studies and they are in dire need of help,” Waweru said.
He spoke when flood victims within Juja sub-county received donations including food rations and beddings at Zetech University, Mang’u campus.
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The partners, Zetech University, Crime Si Poa – Youth Safety Awareness Initiative and Oshwal Mahila Mandal said the initiative aimed at extending a helping hand to those grappling with the devastating consequences of the disaster.
Waweru said if the government and other well-wishers fail to intervene, it will be difficult for most learners to report back to school. “We fear that their academic performance will be significantly affected because of missing classes,” he said.
Witeithie floods victims led by Mary Kamande appealed to the government to ensure their children go back to school as their uniforms and books were also swept away by the floods.
Zetech University Director of Corporate Affairs and Marketing John Mwai emphasized the university’s unwavering commitment to serving the community, particularly during moments of acute need.
“At Zetech University, we recognize the profound impact of the floods on the lives of our fellow citizens. Through this initiative, we aim to extend a helping hand to those grappling with the devastating consequences of the disaster,”
The University gave Umbrella sheds to affected small traders as Mwai further hinted that they were looking for more partners to offer sponsorships to children from the affected families.
He said the umbrellas will help the traders from extreme weather conditions and give them a head start.
Oshwal Mahila Mandal Chairlady Bharti Raja underscored the transformative impact of collective action in addressing humanitarian challenges.
“As advocates for women’s empowerment and community development, we are honoured to collaborate with Zetech University and Crime Si Poa in providing relief to flood-affected communities. Together, we stand united in our commitment to building a more resilient and compassionate society,” affirmed Raja.
Over 150 families benefited from the aid which included blankets, foodstuffs, umbrellas and other essentials providing them with much-needed relief in the face of adversity.
By Kamau Njoroge
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