Counsel Wanyoto rolls out bursaries to boost education access in Mbale

Mbale City, Uganda: Counsel Paul Mugoya Wanyoto, aspiring Member of Parliament for Mbale Northern City Division, has launched a scholarship initiative aimed at boosting access to education among vulnerable children in the area.

Wanyoto, who also serves as Chairman of the Mbale City Land Board, began the campaign at Nakaloke Playground during the Oluhuje event, where he offered 30 bursaries to support children from the Banyole community. The program has since expanded to Nabweya Ward, where he gave out an additional 50 scholarships, bringing the total to 80 beneficiaries so far.

Speaking during a recent gathering at Nabweya Police Post, Wanyoto reaffirmed his commitment to education and inclusive development.

“To the people of Nabweya Ward, I’m providing 50 scholarships. Local leaders from the twelve cells in the ward will identify the beneficiaries we support in their education,” Wanyoto said. He noted that other wards in the Northern Division will also benefit from similar support.

Wanyoto emphasized his focus on foundational education from Primary One through Senior Six, but also pledged to support a number of students in tertiary institutions.

“If we don’t educate our children, they may end up on the streets and disturb the community. We must take education seriously,” he said. “If we work together with local council leaders, we can minimize these challenges, as some children drop out of school due to domestic violence and economic hardship at home.”

He assured the residents of Nabweya, Namanyonyi, and other parishes that his approach is action-based. “My job is to lobby for Nabweya, Namanyonyi, and the entire Northern Division. I don’t make empty promises. What I promise, I deliver. I know my people need money, and it’s coming because I have the money.”

Community leaders applauded the initiative and rallied support behind Wanyoto’s leadership bid. Zakaliya Safiyi Mudebo, LC1 Chairman of Lumumba Cell, said: “I urge the people of Nabweya Ward to rally behind Wanyoto. He is not only one of our own, but also a man who listens and supports everyone.”

Suleiman Modoi, Chairman of Kilulu A, echoed similar sentiments: “Paul, you’re doing a great job, you have our blessings. What you’ve done is not about campaigns, it’s a sample of what’s to come.” He urged residents to remain united and avoid political divisions. “Many will come seeking votes, but some have disappointed us before. Let’s support someone who truly cares.”

Mbale City Probation Officer Dominic Wanzira welcomed the scholarship initiative, citing the urgent need to address the growing number of street children in the city.

“Mbale has over 120 street children. This growing population comes with concerns about vulnerability to exploitation, increased crime, and health risks,” Wanzira said. “Many of these children end up on the streets due to poverty, neglect, domestic violence, or are sent out to beg in order to support their families.”