John Mwalili grew up in Mukuru slums in Nairobi. This is one of the largest informal settlements in Kenya’s capital city.
Going to school here is a challenge for many, but Mwalili’s parents were able to struggle to pay him fees until he cleared primary school.
Mwalili was among millions of learners who sat for KJSEA, an examination that will allow him to proceed to senior school after nine years in junior level.
The boy proved that he efforts were not in vain. He scored 64 points, earning him a spot at Alliance Boys, one of the prestigious national schools.
Unfortunately, when Mwalili reported to school after his parents bought him uniform and few necessities, the school management sent him home for not raising school fees.
Dejected and thirsty for education, the boy went back home and opted to work in the nearby Kware dumpsite in Embakasi.
At the dumpsite,Mwalili and others forage for something valuable from tonnes of waste, including scrap metals, plastic bottles, and other items that are sold for recycling.
“My parents have tried their bets, but when I reported to Alliance Boys, we were sent back home until we raise school fees,” Mwalili said
“I have no other means but to work in the dumpsite and see of we can raise the money so that I can raise the school fees, it is hard job but we have no one else to rescue us,” the boy added
His father said that despite knocking at several government offices for help, their efforts are yet to bear any fruits.
“It is sad that the government says education is free but that seems like a big lie, it is not true that is why we are appealing for help so that my son can access education, he is my only hope,” the man who is a small trader in Pipeline said
