Hon. Dr. Irene Kasalu Sponsors 61 Needy Students with Full Scholarships Across Kitui County
Kitui County Woman Representative Dr. Irene Kasalu, on Tuesday, 3rd February 2026, sponsored 61 needy but academically gifted students drawn from all corners of Kitui County with full scholarships to join Grades 10 to 12 in various secondary schools across the country.
The sponsorship programme, implemented through the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) under the Office of the Kitui Woman Representative, saw a total of Ksh. 9,798,532 disbursed. The amount fully catered for Term One school fees for all the beneficiaries.
Speaking during the official issuance of cheques at the Kitui Multipurpose Hall in Kitui Town, Dr. Kasalu reiterated that education has remained her top priority since assuming office as the County Woman Representative in 2017.
She noted that through the NGAAF kitty, her office has continuously supported needy students by offering full scholarships across different levels of education. These include secondary schools, TVET institutions, NITA courses, and universities, with the aim of empowering young people and transforming livelihoods across Kitui County.
Dr. Kasalu further used the occasion to appeal to the national government and non-governmental organizations to urgently intervene in addressing the food insecurity affecting many parts of the county. She noted that the situation has been worsened by poor and failed rains during the November–December rainy season, leaving many households vulnerable and in need of humanitarian support. “During the November–December rain season, many areas of Kitui County did not receive adequate rainfall. As the Office of the County Woman Representative, I have written several proposals and requests to NGOs to support our people with food because for many families, even affording one meal a day has become a serious challenge,” she said.
Dr. Irene Kasalu, who is also eyeing the Kitui County gubernatorial seat in the 2027 General Elections after serving two terms as Woman Representative, outlined her vision should she be elected as governor. She stated that her administration would prioritize education as the greatest equaliser in society. “When elected as Kitui Governor, I will prioritize education because it is the biggest equaliser. My administration will ensure that every child has access to quality education,” she said.
She also revealed plans to meaningfully engage Kitui youth through the establishment of a Kitui Youth Service Programme. The initiative targets young people who may not have attained grades required to join secondary schools or universities, enrolling them in specialized training and community service before transitioning to TVET institutions, supported by grants and equipment to help them start sustainable careers.
Dr. Kasalu reiterated that investment in education and addressing basic needs such as food security remain key pillars in achieving sustainable development and improving the overall welfare of communities in Kitui County.
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