The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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A wave of public outrage has erupted over the deplorable state of Imumba Primary School in Zombe, Kitui East Constituency — even as the government splashed Ksh 700 million on the construction of Ithookwe Stadium in Kitui town, ahead of the Mashujaa Day celebrations.
The dilapidated Imumba Primary School, which accommodates about 371 pupils, paints a picture of neglect and misplaced priorities. Classrooms have cracked walls, broken desks, and leaking roofs, forcing learners to endure harsh conditions that threaten their safety and education.
Meanwhile, barely 60 kilometres away, the newly constructed Ithookwe Stadium gleams with modern facilities, ready to host the national celebrations on October 20. The stadium, which can hold up to 10,000 people, has drawn mixed reactions from residents — many questioning why education and essential services in rural areas continue to suffer amid such massive spending.
The area Member of Parliament, Nimrod Mbai, who represents Kitui East under the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party, has also been under scrutiny for his recent conduct. A viral video recently captured the legislator harassing Kenya Power officials during a confrontation over electricity disconnections, sparking public criticism over his leadership style and priorities.
Residents have since called on both the county and national governments to channel more resources toward improving basic education infrastructure instead of focusing solely on grand projects.
“Imumba pupils sit on the floor and share books, yet billions are being spent on stadiums for one-day events,” lamented a resident of Zombe. “We need classrooms, not empty promises.”
As preparations for Mashujaa Day continue, the contrasting realities between Imumba Primary School and Ithookwe Stadium have ignited a wider debate about equity, development priorities, and the accountability of elected leaders in Kitui County.
