At 79, Samwel Wainaina, a farmer-turned-board member, is proving that age is no barrier to learning. Born in 1946 in Nyandarua, Wainaina recently sat for his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exams at Nakuru Boys’ High School as an adult candidate, aiming to enhance his skills to serve farmers better in leadership positions.
Wainaina’s thirst for education was sparked when he joined the East African Farmers Federation board. “Boardroom negotiations required knowledge I did not have, and I realized education could strengthen my voice in these spaces,” he explained.
His journey has been unconventional. After completing primary school, Wainaina could not attend Nyandarua High School because his parents, squatters on a settler farm, lacked the funds. When his family received land allocation, he had to surrender the little money his parents had borrowed for his education to pay settlement fees.
Forced into casual work, Wainaina eventually ventured into farming in Laikipia, raising cattle and engaging with other farmers to improve livestock breeds. His dedication led him to the Kenya National Farmers Federation (KENAFF), and later to the East African Farmers Federation, where he rose to board membership.
Despite decades of experience, Wainaina found boardroom discussions challenging, prompting him to pursue formal education. His children became his tutors, helping him navigate the KCSE syllabus. His granddaughter, Mary Njeri, a master’s student and business analyst, emphasized the family’s role in supporting him through tuition and exercises to ensure he caught up academically.
Wainaina hopes to advance to university to study community development, aiming to acquire knowledge that will directly benefit his community. His story is a testament to lifelong learning and dedication, proving that passion and determination can overcome years of missed opportunities.
From humble beginnings to regional leadership, Samwel Wainaina’s KCSE journey is a reminder that education is a powerful tool for empowerment, regardless of age.
