Webuye East Member of Parliament, Martin Pepela Wanyonyi has called on the government to urgently release funds allocated for free primary and secondary education to support struggling schools within his constituency. Addressing the issue of delayed disbursements, Pepela highlighted the significant financial challenges faced by local institutions, which are hindering the delivery of quality education to students.
Speaking during the launch of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) bursary program at Sipala Boys Secondary School in Mihuu Ward, Pepela stressed the critical need for immediate action. He explained that many schools in Webuye East were unable to continue providing quality education due to a lack of resources. “It’s time for the government to fulfill its promises and release the funds without further delay,” Pepela urged.
In addition to addressing the funding issues, the MP announced plans to simplify the bursary application process by making application forms directly available at schools. This move is expected to reduce the need for parents and students to travel to government offices, saving both time and money. “We aim to reach as many needy students as possible while improving academic performance in our constituency,” Pepela noted.
Pepela further emphasized his dedication to ensuring that all students, including those pursuing tertiary education or studying outside the constituency, receive the support they need. He encouraged them to visit the Webuye office for bursary applications.
The MP also called on the Bungoma County government to fulfill its obligations under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between Webuye East Constituency, West Kenya Company, and the County Government. According to the MOU, West Kenya Company was to provide fuel and funds for the purchase of a quarry site. However, the county government has not provided the necessary machinery, leading to an ineffective dumping of murram along the Lugulu-Lukusi road.

Criticizing the lack of development in the region, Pepela took aim at Governor Lusaka, accusing him of failing to initiate any legacy projects in Webuye East, despite overwhelming support from the local community in the 2022 elections. “Our people supported Governor Lusaka, and yet they have seen no substantial improvements in their area,” he remarked.
The financial burden on schools has also been voiced by local education leaders. Aggrey Ligame, the Chairman of the Kenya Secondary Schools Headteachers Association (KESSHA), urged parents to do their best to contribute to school fees, despite the financial challenges they face. “We understand the difficulties, but we ask that parents support their children’s education to ensure that our schools can continue to operate effectively,” Ligame said.
Robert Mandila, the Secretary of the Kenya National Union of Teachers (KNUT) in Bungoma East, echoed this call, advising parents to prioritize their children’s education and fulfill their school fee obligations, even with government subsidies in place.