Kenyan Boy Who Made Hand Washing Machine Receives Presidential Award

A nine-year-old Kenyan boy who made a wooden hand-washing machine to help curb the spread of coronavirus has told the BBC he is “very happy” after receiving a presidential award.

Kenyan Boy Who Made Hand Washing Machine Receives Presidential Award

“I now have two machines and I want to make more,” Stephen Wamukota said.

They allow users to tip a bucket of water using a foot pedal to avoid touching surfaces to reduce infections.

Stephen came up with the idea after learning on TV about ways to prevent catching the virus.

Kenya has reported more than 2,000 cases of Covid-19 and 69 deaths.

Stephen and his family live in Mukwa village, in Bungoma country, western Kenyan, which has not reported a single case of the virus.

His father, James Wamukota, however, worries that it could still come to his area.
How was the machine made?

“I had bought some pieces of wood to make a window frame, but I when I came back home after work one day I found that Stephen had made the machine,” Mr Wamukota told the BBC.

“The concept was his and I helped tighten the machine. I’m very proud,” he said.

Mr Wamukota, who repairs electronic goods for a living, said that his son has always been keen to learn his trade.

He posted his son’s invention on Facebook and was surprised how quickly it was shared, he said.

Stephen was among 68 Kenyans given the Presidential Order of Service, Uzalendo (Patriotic) Award on Monday.

The newly created presidential category of state commendations honours civilian Kenyans who play key roles in helping the country during the Covid-19 period.

Stephen said that he wants to be an engineer when he grows up and the county governor has promised to give him a scholarship, Mr Wamukota said.

©Bbc

Mr Madu
Mr Madu
Mr Madu is a freelance writer, a lover of Africa and a frequent hiker who loves long, vigorous walks, usually on hills or mountains.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Join Our Newsletter

Sign up for our newsletter today and start exploring the vibrant world of African history and culture!

Just In

Arthur St. Clair: The Black Minister Lynched for Presiding Over a Mixed-Race Marriage in 1877

Arthur W. St. Clair was an African-American leader whose life was tragically cut short in 1877. His crime? Presiding...

More Articles Like This