Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, through the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, Gender, Culture, and Social Services, Mercy Njagi, has revoked the appointments of 22 members serving on the Ward Education Bursary Committees.
The dismissal, which has been effected immediately, was formally communicated in a Gazette notice dated March 21, 2025.
The decision affects members from seven wards across the county, though the specific reasons behind their termination remain undisclosed.
This swift action has sparked speculation among residents and stakeholders in the county, especially since the notice did not provide any detailed explanation regarding the dismissal of the members.
Among the affected are individuals from several wards, including Moses Ndung’u Kahura, Julius Ngotho Githiri, Luke Njenga Wamaitha, Ann Wajiru Ngige, and Veronicah Wangari, all of whom were serving in Muguga Ward.
Additionally, other notable names such as Anthony Kamau, John Ngahu Waruimbo, Benard Njoroge Kariuki, John Maina Ngigi, and William Mwaura from Ngoliba Ward have also been removed from their positions.
The Governor’s action is seen as part of a broader push to streamline and enhance transparency in the county’s education bursary allocation system, a crucial program that supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
However, the lack of a clear justification has raised eyebrows, leading to growing concerns about the future of the bursary program and its ability to support those in need.
The ward-level committees play a vital role in the allocation and management of education bursaries in Kiambu, making the recent shake-up particularly impactful for many students and their families.
The County Education Bursary Fund, established under the Kiambu County Education Bursary Fund Act 2014, has been a lifeline for thousands of students pursuing secondary and tertiary education.
The revocation of these appointments comes at a critical time when many students are awaiting disbursements to fund their education for the upcoming school terms.
Residents and education advocates are now urging the county government to provide more clarity on the reasons behind these sudden dismissals.
“We understand the need for accountability, but the sudden removal of committee members without any prior notice or explanation is unsettling,” said one local resident.
“It is essential that we know what led to this decision so that the education system can continue to operate smoothly.”
Kiambu residents are hoping that the new appointments will be made with due diligence and will focus on improving the efficiency and fairness of the bursary distribution process.
Governor Wamatangi has yet to make a public statement regarding the firings, but his administration’s commitment to reshaping the county’s educational landscape is expected to be a key focus in the coming months.