83-year-old man walks 530km in support of needy students at Tharaka University
By William Muthama, August 20, 2026An 83-year-old man has completed a 530-kilometre walk to raise funds for financially needy students at Tharaka University in Tharaka Nithi County.
Isaac Gachugo began the walk on Monday, August 3, 2026, and completed the journey on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, after walking hundreds of kilometres in support of students who have struggled to pay their fees despite having the academic ability to pursue higher education.
Gachugo undertook the challenge after discussions with the university administration on ways of supporting students facing financial difficulties.
“Kuna challenges za school fees. Nikaamua, tukang’enga na VC, nikamwambia 530 kilometres nita-walk ndio hawa watoto wafaidike. Sisi ni Wakenya. Tunataka watoto wote wasome kitu kimoja,” Gachugo said.
He said his decision was driven by the need to ensure students are not forced to abandon their education because of financial challenges.
University applauds effort
Tharaka University Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Muriungi praised Gachugo for completing the demanding journey, saying his initiative reflected the importance of giving students an opportunity to pursue education regardless of their financial background.
“Today we are celebrating his journey of 530 kilometres for an old man, 83 years old, who thinks in his own wisdom that every child must be given an opportunity to study, whether they have money or they don’t have money,” Muriungi said.
Muriungi said not every student has the financial means to pay school fees, despite having the academic ability to succeed.
He said the university appreciated Gachugo’s commitment to helping students who face such challenges.
“We are and will always be our brothers’ keepers,” Muriungi said.
Leaders seek support
Charles Ngatia, the chairman of Kiambu Golf Club, said the team supporting Gachugo began the walk with 17 kilometres on the first day.
“We started the walk. The first day we did 17 kilometres. We are in great support of this initiative,” Ngatia said.
Ngatia praised Gachugo for taking on the challenge at his age and called for more people to support the initiative.
Moses Murimi, a Tharaka-based businessman, also urged Kenyans to contribute towards the education of needy students.
“Tunashukuru sana kwa hiyo initiative na tunaomba watu wote waweze kuleta mkono yao hapa, tuweze kusupport, tuweze kusaidia. Watu waweze kuchanga, ndio watoto wetu waweze kusoma bila kuwa na shida mingi sana, ndio wakitoka kule nje waweze kusaidia katika ujenzi wa nchi yetu,” Murimi said.
The initiative is seeking financial support to help academically gifted students who face difficulties paying their university fees.
The university has urged well-wishers and other stakeholders to contribute towards the programme and help students complete their studies.