Speaker Douglas Mbilu Calls for Unified National Bursary System to End Education Inequality

Makueni County Assembly Speaker Douglas Mbilu has urged the national government to overhaul Kenya’s fragmented bursary system and establish a single, transparent National Education Fund to support equitable access to quality education.

Speaking during the issuance of County bursaries at Kathonzweni, Speaker Mbilu welcomed the support offered by county governments but said the moment underscored a much deeper problem within Kenya’s education financing model.

“We must stop patching up a broken system. Kenya needs a consolidated, accountable National Education Fund to deliver on the promise of free, quality, and compulsory education for every child,” he said.

He highlighted the current overlapping bursary structures—including the Presidential Bursary, Ministry of Education Bursary, County Bursary, NG-CDF Bursary, and Women Rep Bursary—as inefficient and prone to politicization and mismanagement.

“This patchwork system not only promotes inequality but also violates Article 43(1)(f) of our Constitution, which guarantees every child the right to education,” he noted.

Speaker Mbilu emphasized that a unified bursary framework would promote fairness, reduce duplication of roles, and restore public confidence in the administration of education support programs.

His remarks come at a time when thousands of learners across the country continue to face financial obstacles that threaten their academic future, despite multiple funding streams intended to assist them.

MP ROBERT BASIL RALLIES BEHIND YATTA TEAMS, DONATES JERSEYS AND BALLS AHEAD OF COUNTY GAMES

Yatta Member of Parliament, Hon. Robert Basil, on Wednesday morning made a spirited visit to the Machakos School playground where he joined fans and supporters in cheering on the determined and talented teams representing Yatta Constituency in the ongoing county-level ball games.

In a show of steadfast support and recognition of their outstanding performance, Hon. Basil donated assorted sports gear—including branded jerseys and a variety of balls—to the Yatta teams. The move was aimed at boosting the morale of the athletes and empowering them as they carry the constituency’s hopes in the county championship.

“I am incredibly proud of our boys and girls who have made it this far. Their commitment, discipline, and teamwork are commendable. These jerseys and balls are not just gifts, but symbols of the trust we place in them,” Hon. Basil said during the brief ceremony. “I urge you to give your best and fly the Yatta flag high. You have our full support.”

The MP’s visit and donation were met with cheers and gratitude from players, coaches, and team managers, who hailed the gesture as timely and inspiring. Many acknowledged Hon. Basil’s continued investment in youth empowerment, especially through sports development in the constituency.

Coach Mary Ndunge of the girls’ volleyball team said, “This kind of support from our MP means a lot. The students feel seen, appreciated, and motivated. It’s not just about winning—it's about knowing that their efforts matter.”

Team captain of the boys’ football team, Daniel Mutua, added, “We are going to give our all. We thank our MP for believing in us. We won't disappoint.”

Hon. Basil, who has been at the forefront of youth initiatives across Yatta, reiterated that sports not only promote physical well-being but also discipline, teamwork, and a sense of identity and pride among young people. He emphasized that his office will continue to support sporting activities, school competitions, and talent development programs across all wards in Yatta.

The county-level games bring together top-performing school teams from various sub-counties in Machakos to compete for regional glory and qualification to the next stage. The Yatta teams, having excelled in their zonal and sub-county matches, have been touted as strong contenders in multiple disciplines including football, volleyball, netball, and basketball.

As the competitions continue, all eyes are on the Yatta teams to deliver a strong performance and bring the trophies home—fueled not just by skill and talent, but by the unwavering support from their community and leadership.

Yatta MP Hon. Robert Basil Honored with Mizani Africa Award for Top Performance

Yatta Constituency Member of Parliament Hon. Robert Basil has been recognized as one of the top-performing legislators in the country, receiving the prestigious Mizani Africa Award over the weekend.

In a statement following the award, Hon. Basil expressed gratitude to the people of Yatta, stating that the accolade is a shared achievement that belongs to the community. “This recognition is not just mine—it belongs to the people of Yatta Constituency. Together, we’ve turned promises into progress,” he said.

Hon. Basil noted that the award serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership lies in service, reaffirming his commitment to continue working diligently for the people of Yatta. “We’re just getting started,” he added.

Under his leadership, Yatta has witnessed significant development across key sectors including education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.

The Mizani Africa Awards recognize exemplary performance among elected leaders across various categories, based on service delivery, development initiatives, and impact on constituents.

With a strong rallying call, Hon. Basil concluded his message: “Yatta ni kazi tu! Pamoja tujenge Yatta!”

DG FRANCIS MWANGANGI GRACES MAVOKO TALENTS AWARDS CEREMONY AT ARGYLE HOTEL

Machakos Deputy Governor Hon. Francis Mwangangi graced the Mavoko Talents Awards Ceremony held at the prestigious Argyle Hotel along Mombasa Road, in a colourful celebration of youth creativity and excellence.

The event brought together young talents from various fields including music, art, dance, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It was a night of recognition and encouragement as outstanding individuals were awarded for their exceptional skills and contributions.

In his address, Hon. Mwangangi hailed the youth for their vibrant energy and creative spirit, terming them as the backbone of the county’s future.

“It was an unforgettable moment as we celebrated the creativity and vibrant gifts of our youths. Their talent is unmatched and deserves all the support,” he said.

He further reiterated the county government’s unwavering commitment to nurturing talent, noting that empowering the youth remains a top priority for the Machakos administration.

As a government, we remain committed to nurturing talents among the youth by providing them with the necessary opportunities and resources to help them thrive,” he added.

The Deputy Governor also congratulated all the winners, describing their hard work and determination as truly inspiring.

The Mavoko Talents Awards are part of a broader initiative to promote youth empowerment, social development, and innovation across Machakos County.