Siaya: The County Government of Siaya has partnered with World Bicycle Relief and Buffalo Bicycles to donate bicycles to needy students in day secondary schools in a move aimed at promoting education and enhancing their mobility. 100 students from Udira Secondary School in Sega, Ugenya Sub-county, received bicycles during a ceremony at the school grounds attended by officials from the Department of Education, partners, and parents, amongst other guests.
According to Kenya News Agency, the initiative, spearheaded by the County Department of Water, Environment and Climate Change, World Bicycle Relief, and Ministry of Education, is designed to address the issue of student mobility. Many students in rural areas are forced to walk long distances to school, often in unsafe conditions and at the expense of their academic performance. Education experts have identified this as one of the leading contributors to high dropout rates among learners in day secondary schools in rural areas.
Speaking during the event, Maureen Kolenyo from World Bicycle Relief emphasised the importance of addressing mobility issues among students. "The challenge of mobility remains the biggest hurdle for students in day schools. Many drop out of school simply because they cannot consistently reach school on time or safely. Our mission is to ensure that a bicycle becomes a reliable tool for access to education," she said.
The event marked a significant milestone in the county's broader initiative to improve education in the region. Chief Officer in the Department of Water, Environment and Climate Change, Michael Oliech, praised the collaboration, stating that the donation aligns perfectly with Siaya County's dual mandate of prioritising education and reducing carbon emissions. "The County is privileged to be working with Buffalo Bicycles, who have generously donated 100 bicycles to students at Udira Secondary School. In addition, the County government has purchased 150 more, and 180 bicycles will soon be donated to local Climate Champions," Oliech revealed. "This is part of our holistic strategy to integrate climate action into everyday life while promoting education."
Oliech further noted that bicycles offer a viable and sustainable alternative to motorcycles, which are often used for student transportation but contribute significantly to environmental pollution. By promoting the use of bicycles, the County is not only supporting education but also reducing its carbon footprint. "The use of bicycles helps us achieve multiple goals - it's cost-effective, eco-friendly, and directly supports students," he added.
One of the most impactful aspects of the programme is the support to female students. Oliech highlighted the dangers that girls face when commuting to school before dawn. "Girls are especially vulnerable as they walk long distances in the dark. With these bicycles, they can now travel faster and at safer hours. It's a matter of ensuring the girl child is safe while pursuing her education," he said.
John Mulwa, Country Manager for Buffalo Bicycles, expressed his organisation's long-term commitment to the cause. "This is only the beginning. Our goal is to support more schools across Siaya County. We are proud to be part of a mission that empowers students and communities through improved mobility," he stated.
Parents and school administrators welcomed the initiative, calling it a transformative move for rural education. The principal of Udira Secondary School noted that the school has seen students struggle with punctuality and fatigue due to long commutes. "These bicycles are a game-changer. Students can now arrive on time, less exhausted, and ready to learn," she said.
Parents of the beneficiaries also expressed gratitude, noting that many could not afford any form of transportation for their children. "We are truly thankful. This support relieves a huge burden and gives our children a real chance at success," said Anastacia Achieng, a parent at the school.