First Lady Rachel Ruto has overseen the transformation of Unoa Comprehensive Primary School in Makueni County, marking a major milestone in improving learning conditions for pupils and enhancing the well-being of the surrounding community.
The intervention includes the installation of a borehole, water storage tanks, and a solar-powered pumping system to support both domestic use and irrigation.
Mrs Ruto first visited the school last year, where she witnessed the difficult learning conditions learners faced—a dusty compound where children sat on the ground, exposed to scorching heat and swirling dust.
With few trees, no grass, and minimal comfort for learners, she pledged to support the drilling of a borehole and the establishment of a school kitchen garden.
“Unoa’s transformation journey began with an ambitious vision—to grow grass where dust once ruled. But there was no water. So, the first and most urgent step became clear: we had to drill a borehole. From that one decision, a wider transformation journey began,” she said.
The First Lady noted that in less than a year, the school has undergone remarkable change, with a thriving kitchen garden, improved greenery, and a grass-covered compound.
“Unoa did not wait—it took action. The kitchen garden you have established, complete with fruit trees and nutritious crops, is a powerful statement. It says: we will not only receive change; we will build on it. I am proud of you for that,” she added.
She reaffirmed the Government’s commitment, under the leadership of President William Ruto, to continue investing in children through improved school infrastructure, digital learning, school feeding programmes, and increased access to clean water.
“When we strengthen our learning facilities, we build a stronger nation. That is why we are here to celebrate today,” she said.
The First Lady also called for stronger partnerships to complement government efforts in creating dignified, safe, and conducive learning environments for children.
She acknowledged key partners, including the Dawoodi Bohra Community, for mobilising resources toward classroom construction and renovation.
“You have not only renovated classrooms, but also restored dignity and renewed hope. You have created spaces where children can learn with pride and ensured accessibility for differently abled learners. That is inclusion in action,” she said.
Additional support came from Konza City and ICT partners, who established an ICT laboratory to expand digital learning opportunities for learners.
Among those present were Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture and Children Services Hannah Cheptumo, Principal Secretary for Water and Sanitation Julius Korir, Principal Secretary for Children Services Carren Agengo, and Makueni Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili.
Ms Cheptumo said the renovation and landscaping of the school would provide safer, more supportive, and child-friendly spaces for learners.
“This is not just an infrastructure project; it is a lifeline that will improve the lives of learners and teachers. The Ministry remains committed to working closely with stakeholders to ensure children receive the best support and opportunities,” she said.
She added that the government remains focused on improving livelihoods through initiatives such as dignified markets and affordable housing.
Principal Secretary Julius Korir noted that the implementation of the Thwake Dam project will significantly improve water supply in Makueni, Kitui, and Machakos counties.
He added that the government is making significant investments in boreholes and dam construction across the country to enhance water access and sustainability.
Ms Agengo said the government will continue supporting orphans and vulnerable children through sponsorship and protection programmes.
“We are keen on ensuring the safety and well-being of children in schools, homes, and communities. We are also rolling out positive parenting programmes to strengthen child protection and support families,” she said.
The event also saw the donation of food supplies and assorted items to support the school community.
