More than 2,000 learners in Baringo, Wajir and Garissa counties are set to benefit from an inclusive education programme launched through a partnership between Airtel Money Kenya and ChildFund Kenya.
The initiative seeks to improve access to quality education for children with visual and hearing impairments by creating safer, more supportive and inclusive learning environments in four beneficiary schools.
The programme will support learners at Marigat Integrated Day and Boarding Primary School and Marigat Special School for the Visually Impaired in Baringo County, Garissa School for the Deaf in Garissa County, and Catholic Integrated Primary and Junior School in Wajir County.
The partnership will address key challenges affecting education outcomes in underserved communities, including inadequate learning infrastructure, limited access to clean water and sanitation services, and gaps in digital learning resources.
Under the initiative, the partners will construct new classrooms, improve sanitation facilities, install handwashing stations, enhance water infrastructure and establish ICT centres equipped with digital learning devices.
Special interventions targeting learners with disabilities will include improved dormitory facilities, accessible sanitation infrastructure and expanded water access to promote dignity and better learning conditions.
Speaking during the partnership signing, Airtel Money Kenya Managing Director Anne Kinuthia-Otieno said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to breaking barriers that prevent children from accessing quality education.
“Education is a powerful force for transforming lives, yet many children still face obstacles such as inadequate facilities, poor sanitation, and limited digital access. Through our partnership with ChildFund Kenya, we are investing in practical and sustainable solutions to create more inclusive learning environments,” Kinuthia-Otieno said.
She added that the programme aims to ensure children with disabilities have equal opportunities to learn, develop their talents and achieve their potential.
ChildFund Kenya Country Director Sankara Gitau said the partnership would help address inequalities faced by children living with disabilities, particularly in marginalised communities.
“Children living with disabilities frequently face additional barriers to accessing quality education and miss opportunities to reach their full potential. These improvements will help create safer, healthier and more inclusive schools where every child with disabilities can learn, participate and succeed,” Gitau said.
The project will also strengthen water and hygiene services through the installation of pipeline extensions, solar-powered pumps, water storage facilities and school hygiene infrastructure.
Airtel Money Kenya and ChildFund Kenya said the partnership goes beyond infrastructure development by investing in the dignity, wellbeing and prospects of children who face barriers to education.