Rotary Club of Bahari Begins `Adopt’ A Student Initiative At Public School

By Pauline Awuor
The Rotary Club of Bahari is seeking well-wishers to “adopt” a student for an academic term at Kongowea Primary School in Kenya’s Mombasa County.

Under the initiative, a donation of 3,000 shillings will ensure that a student receives at least one nutritious meal each day. This support enhances students’ mental alertness and academic performance, providing them with a solid foundation for success.

The club has been involved in enhancing the school’s feeding programme. While the programme currently serves only the lower primary and special needs students, many other students do not receive a daily meal due to financial constraints. At a cost of 15 shillings per meal, the expenses can be challenging for parents at the school.

Located in Mombasa, Kenya, Kongowea Primary School, is a government-run institution with about 2,000 students, most of who come from underprivileged backgrounds. In partnership with the Rotary Club of Bahari, the school receives essential support aimed at improving the welfare of its students and fostering a more conducive learning environment.

Another key initiative that the Rotary Club of Bahari supports is providing uniforms to students in need. Every month, club members donate up to 1,000 shillings, which goes toward purchasing uniforms for the most vulnerable students identified by the Deputy Headmistress.

Even a small donation can bring a smile to a child’s face and boost their confidence, making a difference in their school experience. This uniform project has proven successful and continues to positively impact many students.

To address the school’s sanitation challenges, the club has partnered with a well-wisher who donated EM Enzyme Cleaner for the school’s pit latrine system. The enzyme cleaner contains bacteria that accelerates organic matter breakdown, helping to reduce unpleasant scents and improve hygiene.

This treatment is applied every three months and has been instrumental in creating a cleaner environment for students and staff alike. Sanitation improvements continue as Kongowea Primary School faces a shortage of toilet facilities, with only 18 toilets—nine each for boys and girls.

Recognizing the urgent need, Rotary Club of Bahari has engaged a contractor and earmarked a space to construct an additional 18 toilets, with plans for potential expansion in the future. The project is supported by a Rotarian who will assist with the design and necessary approvals, ensuring the facilities meet the school’s growing needs.