Days after media outlets exposed a fraudulent scholarship scheme allegedly run by Pokot Heritage Foundation, the foundation’s director, Kevina Loyatum, is facing a warrant of arrest.
The scheme has left hundreds of students financially drained after paying for non-existent scholarships.
On Monday, January 20, 2025, around 5:00 PM, Loyatum reportedly threatened West Pokot-based TV47 journalist Andrew Juma at a local hotel.
Juma, who had covered the exposé, said, “He insulted me, threatened my safety, and vowed to ensure I would never work in West Pokot County again.”
The case was reported to Makutano Police Station, where investigations are underway. The police have since issued a warrant of arrest for Loyatum, with Officer in Charge Carren Waliula instructing Chepareria Police Station officers to apprehend her.
Loyatum is also accused of threatening a journalist from The Standard, claiming, “I have the power to make sure non-Pokot journalists don’t work here.”
The fraudulent scheme promised students fully-funded Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) scholarships at a fee of KSh 2,500.
Victims from West Pokot and Elgeyo Marakwet counties were also instructed to apply for Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) funds and other government aid, instead of receiving the promised support.
“This is a betrayal of the community’s trust,” stated West Pokot County Commissioner Khalif Abdullahi. “Such unethical practices must be stopped, and culprits brought to justice.”
Principals of affected TVET institutions have distanced themselves from the foundation.
Shamberere TVET Principal Nyamu Elishah clarified, “Our institution has no association with Pokot Heritage Foundation. If any student was conned, they should file an official complaint with my office for follow-up.”
Education stakeholders are urging the government to increase public awareness on legitimate scholarship opportunities.
“Parents and students must remain cautious,” advised Rebecca Kide, West Pokot County Executive Member for Education. “While the foundation claimed to have signed MOUs with principals, and even set up an office in Chepareria for verification, their intentions were fraudulent.”
West Pokot County Director of Criminal Investigations, George Mutonya, has urged affected students to come forward and report their experiences to law enforcement agencies to help prevent similar scams in the future.
“Those who were defrauded in the name of education should report to the nearest police station so we can launch thorough investigations into this fake scholarship program,” he said.
