Kiambu MP Machua Waithaka launches Ksh.25M primary school project in Kirigiti

The new Kirigiti Primary School, which will be constructed by the State Department for Housing and Urban Planning under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, will be the first public primary school in the neighbourhood.

Speaking during the ceremony, Waithaka said the project was part of efforts to address infrastructure gaps in the constituency and ensure residents have easier access to essential public services.

The legislator also directed the contractor to prioritise local residents when recruiting workers, saying the construction should provide employment opportunities for young people and other members of the surrounding community.

Waithaka maintained that his focus remained on delivering development projects that directly address the needs of his constituents.

“Wengine ni siasa, yangu ni kazi na maendeleo kwa watu wangu wa Kiambu!” he said.

The project has been welcomed by Kirigiti residents, who say the absence of a primary school in the area has forced children to travel approximately two kilometres daily to neighbouring institutions, including Kiuu River Primary School, Kiambu Primary School and Riabai Primary School.

Parents have particularly raised concerns over the safety of children walking long distances to school, citing the risk of road accidents and other challenges along the routes.

Local resident Mary Wainaina said the new facility would ease the burden on families while providing a safer learning environment for children.

“This school is a great relief to parents because our children will no longer have to walk long distances to access education. We are hopeful that bringing the school closer will reduce their exposure to road accidents and give parents greater peace of mind,” she said.

Another resident, Edwin Mwangi, said the project was long overdue, noting that Kirigiti's growing population had increased demand for public education facilities.

Besides improving access to education, the KSh25 million project is expected to create temporary employment opportunities during construction.

Once completed, the school will serve children from Kirigiti and neighbouring areas, reducing the distance learners have to cover to access primary education.

Residents expressed optimism that the project would address a longstanding infrastructure challenge in the area, while calling for its timely completion.