Nairobi: Teachers in Mt. Elgon are being called upon to take advantage of housing units designated for them under the Government’s Affordable Housing Programme. Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) Mt. Elgon Branch Executive Secretary, Patrick Cheptum, highlighted that 20% of these housing units have been reserved specifically for teachers, urging them to register on the Boma Yangu platform to initiate the acquisition process.
According to Kenya News Agency, Cheptum emphasized the importance for teachers, whose salaries are already subject to the Housing Levy, to seize this opportunity instead of remaining passive. “Teachers have a right to benefit from the Affordable Housing Programme. The programme has now stabilised after the initial challenges, so I urge all teachers to download the Boma Yangu app, register and explore the available options,” he stated.
Cheptum made these remarks at Kapsokwony Comprehensive School in Mt. Elgon Sub-County during a homecoming ceremony for Grade Six pupil Abel Kibet, who recently contributed to Kenya winning a silver medal in volleyball at the East Africa School Games in Morogoro, Tanzania.
In addition to housing, Cheptum urged teachers to embrace digital platforms such as Afya Yangu and the KNUT app, which have been developed to enhance their welfare by easing access to services and information. He further encouraged teachers to engage more actively in identifying and nurturing talent in schools, as early support for co-curricular activities could unlock national and international opportunities for learners, while also elevating the profile of schools and communities.
The celebratory ceremony gathered teachers, students, parents, and community members to honor Kibet, who advanced from local competitions to represent Kenya at the regional games. His coach and sports teacher, Tony Chepkirui, praised Kibet’s journey through sub-county and national competitions leading to his selection for the national team.
“We are very proud of Abel for representing Mt. Elgon Constituency and Kenya at the East Africa level. His achievement shows the potential our learners have when talent is identified and properly supported,” Chepkirui expressed. He also described Kapsokwony Comprehensive School as an emerging sporting hub, noting past representations in athletics and rugby at national and regional levels.
Chepkirui disclosed that financial challenges had once threatened Kibet’s sporting journey, but the headteacher, Bosis Boit, mobilized teachers to raise funds, allowing him to continue competing. Kibet, who was honored during the event, encouraged fellow students to remain disciplined and committed to their talents, attributing his success to discipline and determination despite challenges.
KNUT Mt. Elgon Branch Treasurer, Evans Cheseto, noted that Kibet’s achievement brought pride to the teaching fraternity and the wider Mt. Elgon region. He remarked that the silver medal exemplified the accomplishments possible when teachers, parents, and the community collaborate to support students beyond the classroom.
