As cohorts of the first phase of the National Hygiene Programme (Kazi Mtaani) wrap up their activities this Friday, several public institutions in Kinoo division of Kikuyu sub-County have benefitted and therefore saved on money they could have spent on hiring workers to spruce up their premises.
Most institutions, especially schools and hospitals had overgrown grass in their compounds following the premature closure of schools in March this year due to the outbreak of coronavirus in the country.
A tour by KNA in Kinoo division on Tuesday revealed that four schools – Mama Ngina primary and secondary schools and H.G.M primary and secondary schools the only public schools in the division had greatly benefitted since the programme began in May this year. Magana/ Regen and Gichecheni police patrol bases also benefited from the services of the youth who have continuously maintained the cleanliness in the division.
Similarly, 181 youths from Karai division in the Gikambura location cleared the bushes from Mayaihii, Gicharaani, and Gikambura and Thogoto model primary schools.
The playgrounds that had overgrown grass now look appealing to the eye and pupils and students will easily hold their extracurricular activities in the fields without worrying.
At H.G.M primary school, the cohorts have also planted grass in the portion of the playground that had been overused and become dusty so that by the time learning resumes in September, the grass will have grown making the playground look uniform.
Other beneficiaries of the Kazi Mtaani in the same division include Kinoo dispensary and Kinoo Vocational training institute where they slashed the grass, pruned flowers and did landscaping in the only health institution in the division.
Kikuyu Sub-county has three divisions of Karai, Kikuyu and Kinoo with 6 locations of Nachu, Karai, Kinoo, Kikuyu, Kerwa and Lussigeti.
The young people who appear very determined to work for the government have appealed to be considered for the second phase of Kazi Mtaani programme slated to begin in July. At the time KNA toured the area at 2.00pm, they were breaking for late lunch as they do not break until they complete the job which they begin with in the morning.
They are paid Sh.600 per day, which is paid on-line at the end of each working week.
By Lydia Shiloya
