Students of Kilembwa Secondary School in Wamunyu showcasing their innovation. Photo Virginia Siebela 
By Virginia Siebela
In the often-overlooked heartlands of Mwala, Machakos County—where drought, poverty, and limited resources are part of daily life—a quiet but powerful revolution is unfolding. It’s not political or economic. It’s technological. And it’s being led by determined students armed with code, creativity, and an unshakable belief in their potential.
For the second year running, learners from Mwala Subcounty are preparing to compete at the prestigious World Robotics Championship—this time set for Singapore in November. The milestone follows last year’s historic journey to Turkey, where Mbaikini Girls Secondary School made headlines by representing Kenya on the global stage after clinching the national title.
Robotics technology was just finding its way into the rural school for the first time, and the journey was far from easy. But thanks to Kenya Connect—through the Future Investment Initiative, which installed a computer lab with thirty computers—the vision began to take shape.
Now, it’s the turn of Kilembwa Secondary School in Wamunyu. The school’s robotics team—comprising Maxwell Karanja, Joshua Mumo, and Kyallo—emerged winners in the senior category at the recently held National Robotics Competition in Nairobi. Their winning innovation? A robot designed to assist in space exploration by assembling rockets using autonomous line-following and precision fastening systems.
“This robot isn’t just a machine,” explains Mumo. “It’s a tool that teaches us how to solve real-world problems—from space exploration to weather forecasting and even climate change solutions.”
Leading the team is Karanja, known by his peers as “Captain.” With leadership, grit, and imagination, he guided the team through the intricate process of designing and programming their futuristic robot—an achievement made even more remarkable by the fact that robotics was introduced to the school just months ago.
Their journey hasn’t been easy. Early on, the concept of robotics was met with ridicule. In a region where survival often takes precedence over science, some dismissed their efforts as playing with toys. But behind the skepticism was a brilliance waiting to bloom—students who understood the power of technology to rewrite their future.
The students now spend hours each day in their computer lab, perfecting their robot ahead of the global showdown in Singapore. Their biggest challenge at the national event—accuracy—is now their top priority.
More than just a project, coding has transformed their academic lives. “It has improved how we think. It has boosted our grades in science and math. It has changed our dreams,” says Kyalo.
Their inspiration stems from the trailblazing Mbaikini Girls, who proved that students from rural Kenya could shine on the world stage. Motivated by that success, the Kilembwa trio dared to dream—and succeeded—outperforming competitors from elite private schools with access to better equipment.
Still, one obstacle stands in their way: funding. Despite their victory and ambitions, the team has yet to raise the finances required for travel and participation in Singapore. But they remain hopeful—and committed.
Behind this tech transformation is Michael Muthama, their teacher and mentor. “What these boys have achieved is a result of their unstoppable determination. We know the road to Singapore will not be easy, but they are ready,” he says.
Kilembwa’s story would not be possible without the support of Kenya Connect, a local NGO that provided computers and robotics kits to the school. According to Patrick Munguti, Director of Education and Technology at Kenya Connect, their mission is to bridge the digital divide in marginalized areas by giving students access to modern learning tools.
“What we’re seeing in Mwala is phenomenal. These learners are sharp, passionate, and ready to compete globally. They just need the support,” Munguti says.
In a world increasingly shaped by technology, Kilembwa Secondary School stands as a testament that brilliance can thrive anywhere—if given a chance. And in the dusty paths of Mwala, a generation of innovators is already taking flight.
