Education is a cornerstone for opportunity, and in Laikipia, Kenya, access to early learning facilities has long been limited. When pre-school classrooms were provided they were often rudimentary, overcrowded and under-resourced. To address this, the EJ Rihoy Charitable Trust partnered with the GOA&DC, the Segera Mission Foundation and the Laikipia County Government to improve access to quality Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE).
Expanding access to quality education
Originally, the project aimed to build 7 new classrooms for 630 learners and at least 15 teachers across three sub-counties. Through careful planning, strong financial management and collaboration, the team exceeded expectations, completing 10 fully equipped classrooms. Each classroom includes furniture and rainwater harvesting systems, all delivered at a cost of approximately £6,615 per unit – a significant saving compared to initial projections.
Community and government collaboration
The project’s success was built on strong partnerships. Local artisans contributed to construction, county officials provided technical oversight, and communities supported implementation by providing labour and hospitality to contractors. Involving school boards, teachers, and elected leaders ensured local ownership and sustainability.
Results and long-term impact
The impact is already visible. Schools such as Mbogoini ECDE have seen enrolment rise from 50 to 76 learners, while absenteeism has fallen. Baraka Eloi reported an increase in pupils from 25 to 35. At Kaptagat, pre-school age children no longer walk over 5 km to the nearest school, thanks to the new pre-classroom in their own community.
The Laikipia County Government has committed to staffing the schools with qualified teachers and providing learning materials, securing the future of these centres. With 10 classrooms now in operation, more children in Laikipia are learning in safe, well-resourced environments that foster growth, confidence and opportunity.
Sources: EJ Rihoy Trust ECDE Narrative Report 2025
