Luanda MP Dick Maungu has raised alarm over reports that at least 13 school-going children have dropped out of school to engage in gold mining in Mwibona Ward, warning that the trend threatens their education and future prospects.
Maungu called on security officers and other relevant authorities to intervene and ensure the affected children return to school.
Speaking at Mulwanda Primary School on Friday, October 16, 2026, the legislator addressed parents, teachers and local residents, expressing concern over the reported increase in school dropouts seeking opportunities in local gold mines.
He said he had received reports that the children had abandoned their studies to prospect for gold and urged authorities to establish their whereabouts and facilitate their return to class.
“I have received reports that school children in this area of Mulwanda, Mwibona Ward have dropped out of school to venture into gold mining. I want our security team to look for such children and ensure they go back to their respective schools,” Maungu said.
The MP described the reported trend as dangerous and retrogressive, warning that it could undermine education standards and deprive children of opportunities to build better futures.
Maungu Warns Gold Mining Could Derail Children’s Education
The legislator said he was committed to improving access to quality education in Luanda Constituency through better school infrastructure, the provision of learning materials and financial support for needy students through bursaries and scholarships.
He warned that children leaving school for gold mining could undermine efforts to improve educational outcomes across the constituency.
“My focus is to give our children the best learning environment. Dropping out of school for gold mining will kill their dreams,” he added.
Maungu’s concerns highlight the challenge of keeping children in school in communities where informal mining may offer an immediate source of income.
Authorities have been urged to identify the affected pupils and work with parents, teachers and community leaders to ensure they resume their education.
MP Highlights Ksh8.9 Million Electrification Project
Beyond education, Maungu outlined development initiatives targeting electricity access across Luanda Constituency.
He said he was working to connect more homes and learning institutions to electricity, adding that his efforts had enabled households and institutions across the constituency’s five wards to access power.
The MP highlighted the Mulwanda Village electrification project, which he said was being undertaken at a cost of Ksh8.9 million and was expected to serve more than 68 households.
He maintained that access to electricity was important for improving living standards and creating a better environment for learning and economic activity.
Maungu Calls for Focus on Development
The legislator urged residents to assess leaders based on their development record and delivery of services rather than political rhetoric.
He said his priority remained implementing projects intended to improve the lives of Luanda constituents.
“Every leader will be judged by his performance record. For my case, I am focused on performance to my people and my slogan is Kazi Kwanza Siasa Baadaye,” Maungu said.
The MP’s remarks came as he called for concerted efforts by parents, schools and security agencies to address the reported school dropouts and protect children’s access to education.
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