By Issa Hussein - Reporter
Kenya, July 9 ,2026 - The Safaricom Foundation has launched an ambitious programme to construct and upgrade 500 schools across Kenya over the next five years, beginning with a KSh95 million infrastructure project at Kihate Comprehensive School in Mukurweini, Nyeri County.
The groundbreaking ceremony was led by Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and Agriculture and Livestock Development Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, alongside Safaricom Foundation Chairperson Joseph Ogutu.
The initiative is expected to improve learning environments by providing modern classrooms and other essential facilities while strengthening collaboration between the government, the private sector and local communities.
Speaking during the event, Kagwe challenged former students to take a more active role in supporting their former schools through alumni associations.
He said alumni have a responsibility to preserve the legacy of their schools by mobilising resources to improve infrastructure, mentor learners and expand educational opportunities.
"Education remains one of the most meaningful investments anyone can make in society. We are not building for ourselves; we are building for the generations to come. Every classroom we build today lays the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous Kenya tomorrow," Kagwe said.
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The Cabinet Secretary lauded the M-Pesa Foundation for committing to build and upgrade 500 schools across all 47 counties, describing the programme as a transformative investment that will provide thousands of learners with safe, modern and dignified learning spaces.
He also commended Education CS Julius Ogamba, teachers, parents, alumni and the Kihate community for embracing a shared vision to improve education through partnerships.
Ogamba said the Kihate project highlights the growing role of corporate organisations in complementing government efforts to expand access to quality education.
"The projects funded by the M-Pesa Foundation underscore the significant role of corporate partners in promoting access to quality education through infrastructure development and scholarship support," he said.
Safaricom Foundation Chairperson Joseph Ogutu said the Kihate Comprehensive School project marks the first phase of the foundation's nationwide school infrastructure programme, which aims to improve educational facilities in every county over the next five years.
The KSh95 million investment will see the construction and upgrading of key learning facilities at the school, creating a more conducive environment for teaching and learning
The government has increasingly encouraged partnerships with the private sector to bridge infrastructure gaps in public schools as demand for quality learning facilities continues to grow. Through corporate social investment programmes, companies have supported the construction of classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sanitation facilities and digital learning centres, complementing government funding.
The Safaricom Foundation has been one of the country's leading corporate philanthropies, investing in education, health, economic empowerment and environmental conservation. Its latest commitment to upgrade 500 schools nationwide is expected to benefit thousands of learners by improving access to safe and modern learning environments while supporting the government's goal of delivering quality education for all.