Governor George Natembeya on Thursday introduced three landmark education programs aimed at improving access to quality education and uplifting the lives of students across Trans Nzoia County. Speaking at the launch event, the governor emphasized the critical role of education in driving development, stating, “Education is the cornerstone of development.”
Ukombozi School Milk Program: Nourishing Young Learners
At the heart of the initiatives is the Ukombozi School Milk Program, a flagship project designed to provide 43,336 Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) learners with milk twice weekly. The program, funded by a Kshs 70 million allocation, is expected to enhance both the health and academic performance of young learners.
“This is more than just milk,” said Natembeya. “It’s nourishment, it’s health, and it’s an opportunity for our youngest learners to thrive academically and physically.”
The county partnered with New Kenya Cooperative Creameries (New KCC) to ensure a reliable milk supply, with the first consignment already delivered to schools.
Expanding Educational Infrastructure
Governor Natembeya also announced significant investments in school infrastructure, including:
- 122 classrooms constructed for ECDE learners.
- 61 offices and 28 ablution blocks completed.
- 28 twin classrooms currently under construction to further improve learning environments.
Vocational Training Boost
To support vocational education, the county allocated Kshs 45 million for tuition assistance, increasing individual trainee support from Kshs 2,000 to Kshs 13,000. The initiative is complemented by a partnership with Dutch donor group Tools to Work, which has provided tools worth over Kshs 10 million to vocational training centers.
“These tools are modern and of high quality. Our students will now be equipped to compete in the dynamic job market,” Natembeya noted, urging parents to consider vocational training as a viable career path for their children.
Bursaries for Bright but Needy Students
In another milestone, the county disbursed Kshs 36.2 million in bursaries to 7,191 students in secondary schools, universities, and tertiary institutions.
“I am deeply committed to ensuring every child in this county has a chance to succeed,” the governor remarked. “Education frees, education pays.”
Plans for a County University
Looking ahead, Governor Natembeya revealed plans to establish a county university in collaboration with Kibabii University, describing it as a major milestone for higher education in Trans Nzoia.
Broader Development Initiatives
The launch event also highlighted complementary programs aimed at poverty reduction, environmental conservation, and support for small-scale farmers. The governor shared updates on:
- Fukuza Njaa and Nawiri Initiative: Programs designed to uplift thousands of households.
- Tree Planting Campaign: A target of 11 million trees to conserve the Cherangany and Mt. Elgon water towers.
- Alternative Livelihoods: Initiatives like beekeeping to promote sustainability.
“We’re not just addressing education; we’re creating a holistic approach to development that connects education, sustainability, and community welfare,” Natembeya emphasized.
With these transformative initiatives, Governor Natembeya has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a brighter future for Trans Nzoia residents.
















