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Title: Kilifi Scholarship Fund Surpasses Sh3 Billion, Transforming Education for Over 436,000 Learners
Kilifi County has announced that its scholarship and bursary programme has crossed the Sh3 billion mark since its establishment nine years ago, benefiting more than 436,000 learners across the county. Governor Amason Kingi, who presided over the launch of this year’s cheque disbursement, said the fund—created at the onset of devolution—has played a crucial role in supporting students from low-income families. The county allocates Sh350 million annually to the kitty, distributing Sh10 million to each of the 35 wards to ensure equitable access to education support.
Governor Kingi highlighted both the achievements and challenges of the programme, noting that while the fund has significantly eased the financial burden for thousands of parents, weaknesses in its management have surfaced over the years. Complaints of bribery among ward committee members tasked with distributing cheques prompted the county to involve investigative agencies, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission. Kingi said three independent institutions reviewed the management of the bursary system and recommended reforms aimed at sealing loopholes and ensuring funds reach beneficiaries on time. Going forward, all bursary cheques will be sent directly to school accounts, accompanied by an SMS-based tracking system to enhance transparency and accountability.
Education CEC Rachael Musyoki reported that the programme has supported tens of thousands of learners at various levels—49,630 in universities, 271,999 in secondary schools, 44,270 in colleges, and 43,469 in vocational training centres, in addition to 27,513 students sponsored for driving courses. Parents and beneficiaries attending the event expressed gratitude but urged the county to increase ward allocations to Sh20 million to match growing demand. Testimonies from parents such as Garashi resident Kithole Kithi, who received a Sh40,000 bursary to clear his son’s school fees, underscored the programme’s impact. Scholarship committee leaders, including Daniel Ngombo from Ruruma Ward, praised the initiative for enabling many bright students to join national and extra-county schools. As Kilifi looks ahead, calls for expanded funding and continued reforms signal a shared commitment to lifting more families out of poverty through education.