Hundreds of Scouts and Girl Guides gathered at Kitale School Grounds in Trans Nzoia County to honor Lieutenant General Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scouting Movement. Born on February 22, 1857, Baden-Powell, a former British Army officer, established the global scouting movement and was later laid to rest in Nyeri, Kenya, in 1941.
Speaking at the event, Trans Nzoia County CEC for Education and Vocational Training, Janerose Nasimiyu Mutama, reaffirmed the County Government’s commitment to empowering youth through the Ukombozi Scholarship Program.
📚 Empowering Youth through the Ukombozi Scholarship
Ms. Mutama emphasized that the County Government remains dedicated to ensuring every child can achieve their dreams, regardless of their background.
🔹 “Confidence is not about being perfect; it is about knowing that you can learn and grow. We want to create an environment where each girl can overcome challenges and pursue her dreams without limitations,” she stated.
She also highlighted the role of the Girl Guides Movement in fostering courage, resilience, and a spirit of community service among young girls and women.
To further support the movement, Ms. Mutama announced plans to provide Girl Guide uniforms through the Vocational Training Centre’s empowerment program, ensuring that young girls from underprivileged backgrounds can actively participate.
🏕️ The Role of Scouts and Girl Guides in Society
Trans Nzoia County Scouts Commissioner Arthur Keya Sichangi and Girl Guides counterpart Mwanaisha Rashid echoed the importance of scouting and guiding in shaping young minds.
🔹 “The scouting and guiding movements are inclusive spaces that welcome individuals regardless of race, creed, or origin. They equip young people with essential life skills, making them mentally alert, creative, and academically excellent,” said Mr. Sichangi.
He further praised Trans Nzoia County for ranking third-best in scouting nationally, attributing this success to strong leadership and Governor George Natembeya’s support.
💡 Call for Leadership and Community Support
Both the Scouts and Girl Guides leaders urged elected officials and community stakeholders to champion the movement’s growth.
🗨️ “We call upon Members of Parliament, the County Woman Representative, and well-wishers to invest in the movement. With more support, we can uplift even more young people and create future leaders,” said Trans Nzoia County Girl Guides Patron Patricia Melissa.
As the event concluded, the message was clear:
✔️ Education and empowerment are key to a brighter future.
✔️ The Ukombozi Scholarship is a lifeline for many bright but needy students.
✔️ Scouting and guiding foster discipline, creativity, and leadership in young people.
🚀 With continued support, Trans Nzoia County is shaping the next generation of leaders through education and mentorship.
