Fafa Medical Training College in Matungu Sub-County, Kakamega County, yesterday held its second graduation ceremony, presided over by Governor Fernandez Barasa and Matungu Member of Parliament Hon. Peter Oscar Nabulindo.
Among the graduands were 22 students fully sponsored by the Matungu Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) in the faculties of Nursing and Clinical Medicine & Surgery.
Their stories moved many in attendance, with tears shed as the graduates narrated journeys marked by hardship, resilience, and determination.
Most of the beneficiaries were bright students from vulnerable backgrounds—some from broken families, others who had nearly given up on education. Yesterday, they proudly graduated with diplomas in medical disciplines, ready to serve their communities.
Stories of Resilience
- Rafael Wawu Osore (Koyonzo Ward)
Osore sat for his KCSE in 2003 at Koyonzo Mixed Secondary School, emerging top with a B+. He later joined Moi University to study agriculture, but struggled to secure employment. After years of farming and a three-year contract at Absa Bank, he spent nearly 13 years job-hunting before learning about the NG-CDF program.
“I’m glad I got the chance to add value to myself. I’m now ready to give back to the community as a health professional,” he said.
- Gideon Nyangule (Mirere, Namamali Ward)
Nyangule excelled in his KCSE in 2015 and received admission to KMTC for Clinical Medicine but was unable to join due to financial constraints. Through the NG-CDF program, he pursued the same course at Fafa Medical Training College. He praised Hon. Nabulindo for making his dream possible. - Moffat Makokha (Khalaba Ward)
Makokha, who scored a B- in KCSE, learned about the program from a friend while working as a boda boda rider. Three years later, he graduated as a nurse.
“I’m ready to serve the nation as a qualified healthcare provider. Thanks to Hon. Nabulindo for changing lives in our community,” he said. - Fredrick Makomere (Namamali Ward)
Makomere, from a humble background, had struggled even to afford meals. He had worked in construction (mjengo) before being enlisted in the program.
“Joining college after being out for over 10 years was tough, but our teachers understood our situation and guided us well. My life has changed, thanks to Hon. Nabulindo,” he said.
- Annet Achayo
Achayo completed high school in 2015 with a C+ but was forced into street hawking in Nairobi due to a lack of fees. Her illiterate parents were assisted in applying for the program on her behalf.
“I cried tears of joy when the program was launched. I had grown tired of street life, but now I’m a qualified nurse. I will forever be grateful,” she said. - Selphine Asienwa
Asienwa, who scored well in KCSE in 2015, worked as a house help in Nairobi before getting married. Life remained difficult until her mother informed her about the program.
“My life will never be the same again. I plan to advance further, thanks to Hon. Nabulindo,” she said.
Community Impact
Locals praised Hon. Nabulindo’s grassroots (“mashinani”) initiatives, noting that education is the greatest equaliser. Many families in Matungu, they said, now have hope for a brighter future.
While some have questioned why the MP supports private colleges instead of public institutions, Nabulindo has maintained that students from Matungu deserve support regardless of where they study.
“I will continue supporting Matungu students, whether in public or private colleges,” he pledged.
