Work commenced on the project in November 2014. The initial phase of groundwork was difficult due to heavy rains, flooding and poor access to the site. We also struggled to source some key materials at reasonable cost.
In December and early January substantial progress was made completing the ground works and erecting the lower levels of the walls. In January further activity saw completion of the walls and erection of the roof.
Progress was slow in March and April with terrible weather in these months and in early May. In Kenya these are called the “long rains” and they can be extremely destructive. We lost building materials and a shuttered soak-pit. Access to the site was also challenging.
We were hopeful to be able to open the school in May and had planned a special opening ceremony. Despite the weather damaging our progress we decided to proceed with the ceremony anyway. The school has now been registered with the local ministry for education and various consents and permissions required are in place.
Recently we have installed window and door security systems, plastered and commenced painting. Work continues to fit window and door frames, lay floors, connect electricity and fit out the toilets.
Our first classroom opened in July and we hope to open the second in January, in time for the new academic year.
Samwel Manda continues to manage the build project with Nyiera and Osieko village elders.