Murang’a: It is the desire of every parent and community for children to universally access quality education and pursue their dreams. However, this is not always the case as often times, life’s hardships and challenges stand in the way. Such is the story of a 15-year-old Grade Eight pupil from Makuyu, Murang’a County, who despite living alone in a rented single room and facing overwhelming challenges while pursuing education, has risen and excelled in the just-concluded Federation of East Africa Schools Sports Association Championships.
According to Kenya News Agency, Zacharia Kamande, a Grade 8 pupil at Ndeera Primary and Junior School in Makuyu, lives alone in a small rented room, two kilometres from the school compound. His modest home, a single room with a tiny bed in the corner, serves as both his sleeping and study area. Despite the challenges, Kamande’s perseverance recently earned him two medals at the East African Schools Sports Association championships in Kakamega, where he emerged first in Kenya and third in East Africa in shot put and discus.
Kamande started living alone while in Grade Four due to insurmountable challenges at home, often relying on his teachers for meals and housing support. Yet, these hardships have not deterred him from pursuing his passion for athletics. He began participating in athletics in Grade Four, gradually progressing through zonal, county, and regional levels, culminating in his participation at the Federation of East Africa Schools’ Sports Association Championships this year.
His dedication to the sport is evident in the hours he spends training every day, with the help of his teachers turned coaches. Kamande trains every morning, even on weekends and during holidays at Makuyu Teachers Training College. His coach, Peter Nderitu, who has been with him since Grade Four, spotted his talent early on and has been instrumental in harnessing his skills.
Kamande’s story is a testament to resilience and discipline, representing the power of community support for a boy living alone. His achievements have brought recognition to his school, and his Head Teacher, Lydia Murigi, highlights his excellence both in class and extracurricular activities. Kamande dreams of pursuing his sport beyond junior school and potentially going international. His trainers and community believe that with proper support, his potential is limitless.
