In a celebration that defied conventional norms, the usually quiet Kipkenyo Ward in Kapseret Constituency, Uasin Gishu County, came alive as residents gathered to honor their Member of County Assembly (MCA), David Kimeli Letting, popularly known as Kokwas.
The 64-year-old MCA had achieved a remarkable personal milestone by sitting for the 2024 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination and scoring a mean grade of D-.
For Kokwas, this was no ordinary achievement. Despite dropping out of nursery school in 1970 and spending most of his life without formal education, he managed to sit for the national examination as a private candidate. His results—four Es, two D-s, and a C- in Biology—may seem modest to some, but they represent a victory for a man who had never attended regular school or received formal tuition.
“I am ahead of 400 and 80 something students who have wasted 15 years, and me I go there in 30 days of exam only,” he proudly declared. “I have never gone to any school… even a tuition. There is nobody who has come to where I am and told me that this is this and this is this. I am trying to do my exam through God.”
Kokwas’s journey back to education began four years ago when he decided to sit for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) exam. Despite scoring only 150 marks, the experience inspired him to push further and attempt secondary school certification.
“Wakisema watu wa O-Level, mimi nitakuwa mmoja wao. Sitatolewa na hii kazi ya MCA,” he remarked, referencing past requirements that sought to disqualify leaders without a Form Four certificate. “Kuna wakati walikuwa wanasema kama hauna certificate ya Form Four huwezi pewa… sasa saizi hakuna kitu wataniambia.”
The MCA’s determination stems from his desire to better serve his constituents and actively participate in debates at the Uasin Gishu County Assembly. He wanted to gain confidence in articulating issues in English and representing his ward effectively.
“I am happy that I already know how to speak in English and explain because that is my nature and this is from God,” Kokwas said, beaming with pride.
Kokwas’s journey is not just about academic pursuit; it is also a story of resilience and the will to overcome societal expectations. As someone who had never attended formal schooling, he relied on sheer determination and his belief in God.
“Just imagine bwana, ati nimeshinda watu 400,” he exclaimed, reflecting on his results. “In Biology I (scored) C-, and there is nobody here who has (scored) C-. Because I am somebody who is learned from the stomach of my mother… I am a person who is different.”
His candid and humorous remarks have endeared him even more to his supporters. While reflecting on his Kiswahili results, Kokwas joked, “Hiyo Kiswahili kwanza haikuwa mbaya, nikaona sasa ntapata E plus. Wengi wakaniambia ata E plus haipatikani… sasa mimi nikajikaza tu lakini juzi nikakuwa surprised kupata kwamba niko na D-.”
The celebration in Kipkenyo Ward was a testament to the strong bond between Kokwas and his constituents. Residents showered him with praise, proud of his determination to pursue education despite his age and challenges. For them, his achievement was not just personal but also symbolic of the transformative power of education.
“Kokwas is an inspiration to all of us,” said a resident during the celebration. “He shows us that it is never too late to achieve something great. He has put Kipkenyo Ward on the map.”
The MCA’s journey also underscores the importance of embracing education as a lifelong pursuit. It serves as a powerful message to young people and adults alike, encouraging them to push past obstacles and aim for their goals.
For Kokwas, the journey does not end with his KCSE results. He is determined to use his newfound knowledge to better serve his ward and make meaningful contributions to the Uasin Gishu County Assembly. Armed with his certificate, he now feels more confident about his role as a leader and is ready to face future challenges.
While his academic journey might have started late, Kokwas remains steadfast in his belief that every milestone is a step toward greater things. His story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of determination.
“I was born different, and this is my journey,” he said, with a smile that lit up the celebration. “This grade shows that I can do more, and I will continue to grow.”
David Kimeli Letting’s story is a powerful reminder that success is not about perfection but persistence. It challenges the societal norm that education is only for the young and proves that determination and faith can break barriers. His achievement is an invitation for everyone—regardless of age or circumstances—to chase their dreams and embrace opportunities for growth.
As Kipkenyo Ward continues to celebrate its beloved MCA, Kokwas’s story will remain an enduring symbol of hope and resilience, inspiring many to believe that it is never too late to learn, grow, and succeed.
