A heartfelt appeal has been made by Ms. Kagendo Riungu, a dedicated teacher at Muthambi Primary School for physically challenged children in Tharaka Nithi County, urging well-wishers and the government to support the institution as it struggles to care for some of the region’s most vulnerable learners.
Speaking during a visit by the Kimacho Group of Toyota Sienta taxi operators, Ms. Riungu outlined the dire conditions the school is facing. She cited challenges such as lack of clean water storage facilities, an overcrowded dormitory, and overwhelming financial burdens on parents who are unable to pay school fees.
“These are children with special needs some cannot bathe or eat on their own. Yet we only have two caregivers for all these children,” she said. “We cannot send them home, and the load is too heavy for us.”
Riungu appealed to members of the public, NGOs, and the county government to support the institution and called on parents not to hide children with disabilities. “Disability is not inability. Parents should bring these children forward so that they can be supported,” she emphasized.
The teacher also lamented the lack of rehabilitation services in the county, recounting how some severely challenged learners were unable to access services in Meru due to full facilities. “There is not a single rehabilitation centre for children in this county. The county government must act,” she urged.
The Kimacho Group, led by Chairman Jacob Munene, donated essential items and interacted with the children. Munene said the group felt compelled to help after previously supporting Kairuni Primary School for physically challenged children.
“As Sienta operators, we believe in giving back. Our mission is simple—impact lives where we can. These children matter,” Munene said.
The group, originally formed to empower Sienta taxi operators and their families, has grown into a community-driven initiative supporting the less fortunate through donations, mentorship, and outreach.
Ms. Riungu said the visit gave the school a glimmer of hope. She now hopes the message will reach more hearts and lead to lasting support for the children.
