The Trans Nzoia County Executive Committee Member (CEC) for Education Janerose Nasimiyu Mutama has been ranked as the best performing CECM for Education in the Western region for the 2025–2026 period, according to pollster rankings released on Thursday.
The recognition has been attributed to a series of education and learner-support programmes implemented under her leadership in Trans Nzoia County, targeting vulnerable learners, school retention and vocational training.
Speaking after the announcement, Mutama thanked her department staff and stakeholders for their support, saying the achievement was a collective effort.
“This achievement is because of the hard work and commitment of the team in the department. I share this honour with them,” she said.
According to the pollster, Mutama stood out for championing equal access to education for both boys and girls through initiatives aimed at improving learner welfare and school attendance.
Among the programmes cited was the distribution of sanitary pads to girls and undergarments to boys, an initiative education stakeholders say has significantly reduced absenteeism in schools, particularly in rural areas.
The county education department was also recognised for supporting needy candidates during national examinations by providing more than 1,000 students with geometrical sets.
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Education stakeholders noted that the intervention eased the financial burden on parents and ensured learners sat their examinations without challenges linked to lack of essential materials.
Mutama’s department has further received praise for expanding opportunities in vocational training through partnerships with development stakeholders.
Under the programme, more than 500 teenage mothers were supported to acquire technical skills and later received start-up kits to help them establish small businesses and improve their livelihoods.
Vocational training centres in Kiminini and Machungwa were among institutions that benefited from the initiative.
Residents and education stakeholders lauded the county official for adopting what they described as a practical and inclusive approach to education management.
“She has gone beyond the normal duties of a CEC to ensure vulnerable learners are supported both academically and socially,” said a parent during the announcement.
Education stakeholders in the region said the recognition reflects the growing role county governments are playing in complementing national efforts to improve access to quality education and technical training.
Mutama is expected to receive the formal award later this month.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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