ECDE learners during a session at Kandongu ECDE centre in Kirinyaga county/ ALICE WAITHERAKirinyaga county has recorded a steady increase in Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) enrollment, a trend attributed to sustained investment in school infrastructure, improved service delivery and enhanced teacher welfare.
Governor Anne Waiguru said enrollment in public ECDE centres has grown from 13,280 learners in 2017 to 16,398 learners in 2025, reflecting increased parental confidence in county-run facilities and improved retention of young learners.
Since 2017, the county government has undertaken a major upgrade of ECDE classrooms, replacing temporary and unsafe structures with modern, child-friendly learning facilities.
Through the Department of Education and Public Service, the county has also distributed furniture, learning and teaching materials, water tanks and play equipment to ECDE centres.
In addition, more than 15,000 learners have benefited from free school uniforms.
In 2024, Waiguru became the first governor in the region to roll out a countywide free uniform programme for ECDE learners, an initiative that teachers and parents described as a game changer in boosting enrollment and retention.
“These initiatives have given parents more confidence in public ECDE learning centres,” Waiguru said, adding that the county’s focus on education is aimed at empowering individuals and driving long-term social transformation.
The county has also prioritised teacher welfare by employing trained ECDE teachers and absorbing them into the permanent and pensionable scheme.
This, Waiguru said, has improved service delivery, classroom stability and the overall quality of learning. Over the years, the county government has constructed about 40 new ECDE classrooms and renovated 45 others, significantly improving the learning environment for children.
“We are committed to supporting our children because we believe each one should have an opportunity to realise their full potential, no matter the circumstances,” Waiguru said.
“Our public ECDE centres are now recording higher enrollment than some private schools due to the transformation we have undertaken.”
The impact of the county’s interventions is evident at the school level.
At Mugaa Primary School, ECDE enrollment now stands at 41 learners following the construction of a new classroom.
Head teacher Lucy Gichuki said the facility has eliminated the challenge of long-distance travel for young children who previously walked about five kilometres to schools in Kandongu, Wakaniu and Ng’othi.
Learners at Mugaa ECDE centre in Kirinyaga county/ ALICE WAITHERA
“In Mugaa, we are lucky to have a classroom built through the support of the county government. Before the new ECDE class, our learners could not easily access the nearest schools,” Gichuki said.
“The classroom, along with the uniforms, furniture and a trained ECDE teacher provided, has created a more conducive learning environment and boosted both teacher and learner morale.”
Parents at the school have also welcomed the improvements. PP1 parent Susan Wakuthi recalled the burden parents previously faced in providing desks and chairs for their children.
“We used to carry desks and chairs to school so that our children could have somewhere to sit. If you did not carry one, your child lacked space,” Wakuthi said.
“Now the county has provided furniture, books, pencils and uniforms, easing the financial burden on parents and ensuring children are not sent home for lack of proper clothing.”
Another parent, Eric Wakugutha, said the new classroom and improved staffing have enhanced attendance and learning outcomes.
“Earlier, our children had to wake up very early and walk long distances, which was stressful. The new classrooms are well ventilated and comfortable, and children no longer fall sick or sleep in class,” he said.
At Kianjogu Primary School, ECDE enrollment has risen to 53 learners following the construction of two modern classrooms and the deployment of two trained ECDE teachers.
Head teacher Juliana Njeru said the school previously relied on semi-permanent iron-sheet structures that were not suitable for young learners.
“Now the classes are comfortable, and we have received trained ECDE teachers, which has greatly improved the learning experience,” she said.
Kandongu Comprehensive Primary School, which now accommodates 38 ECDE learners, has also seen improved standards after receiving a dedicated classroom. Previously, learners studied in a structure meant for the secondary school.
“Before construction, learners had no proper classroom,” noted head teacher Rosaline Muriuki. “Now, standards have improved due to the county’s efforts to transform ECDE learning.”
Parents in Kandongu and Kiarugo primary schools praised the improved infrastructure, free uniforms and learning materials, saying they have reduced financial pressure while making public ECDE centres comparable to private schools.
PP2 parent Anne Muthoni said, “Our children are now learning in modern classes, and we no longer struggle to buy uniforms and learning materials.”
At Kiarugo Primary School, PP1 parent Joseph Murimi said the modern classrooms have given parents peace of mind. “The classroom is modern and safe, so we no longer worry about our children learning in harsh conditions,” he said.
INSTANT ANALYSIS
Over the years, the county government has constructed about 40 new ECDE classrooms and renovated 45 others, significantly improving the learning environment for young children. Through the Department of Education and Public Service, the county has also distributed furniture, learning and teaching materials, water tanks and play equipment to ECDE centres.
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