The Homa Bay County government has launched an ambitious project to build 160 early childhood development (ECD) classrooms as part of a rapid results initiative aimed at enhancing the region’s educational infrastructure. This new program, dubbed Genowa Ondoa Kaunda Classrooms, commenced at God Ndonyo Primary School in Kibiri ward, Karachuonyo constituency on Friday.
Governor Gladys Wanga, who spearheads the initiative, stated that the project is a core component of her campaign promises. The project aims to evenly distribute the benefits across all 40 wards, with each ward receiving an equal number of classrooms.
A Decade of Devolution: Previous Efforts and Current Plans
The project builds on the previous administration’s efforts, which saw the construction of 20 classrooms over the past decade. However, 33 classrooms from prior projects remain incomplete. Last financial year, the Homa Bay government successfully constructed 80 classrooms, and the target has now been doubled to 160 for the current financial year.
Governor Wanga highlighted the cost-effective nature of the initiative, with each classroom budgeted at Sh1 million. The funds will be managed by the schools and local communities, ensuring transparency and community involvement. This decentralized approach is expected to create job opportunities for residents in the areas surrounding the schools.
Community and Economic Impact
“The Public Procurement Act supports this type of local engagement. Funding at the municipal level is beneficial,” Wanga noted. She emphasized that the strategy would not only improve educational facilities but also help eliminate the county government’s outstanding bills.
A project management committee will be established at each school to oversee the construction process. The governor pointed out that contractors would manage the project funds prudently to ensure timely completion without financial shortfalls.
Ensuring Accountability and Timely Completion
Martin Opere, the county executive for education, explained that a standardized blueprint for classroom construction had been developed. Each school will receive a uniform facility, ensuring consistency and quality across the county.
Opere urged Members of County Assembly (MCAs) to supervise the project and warned school administrators to be cautious of individuals impersonating county officials. He stressed the importance of honesty and accountability, warning that the community would take decisive action against anyone found mismanaging the allocated funds.
“We intend to complete all buildings that have stalled in our schools,” Opere affirmed. He emphasized the critical need for timely completion and legal repercussions for any financial mismanagement. “Make sure you finish building the classrooms on time. Anyone who loses money will face legal action,” he concluded.
The Genowa Ondoa Kaunda Classrooms initiative represents a significant step forward for Homa Bay County’s educational development. With a strategic focus on rapid results, community involvement, and stringent oversight, the county aims to create a robust foundation for early childhood education, benefiting the region’s youngest learners and supporting local economic growth.
