Rising to the Challenge: Starehe Scouts Soar at Rowallan National Competition

Author Name : Virginia Migwi

Published Date : August 29, 2025

The Rowallan Scout Centre in Nairobi recently came alive with energy and skill as more than 300 scout teams from across Kenya converged for the prestigious Scouts National Competition. Among the standout participants was Starehe Boys’ Centre and School, whose scouts delivered an inspiring performance that not only earned them accolades but also reinforced their reputation as disciplined, self-led leaders in the Kenyan scouting movement.

Starehe’s Everest Patrol emerged as one of the top-performing teams, clinching the coveted second runners-up position in the highly competitive field. Their success was anchored by the exceptional leadership of Byrone Orimba, who was named Best Patrol Leader for his strategic thinking, confidence, and ability to inspire his team under pressure. His award reflected scouting’s core philosophy of youth-led leadership, responsibility, and resilience.

The school’s Pacific Patrol also made their mark, taking first place in the Observing Category, a test of sharpness, attentiveness, and analytical skills. Their victory showcased the importance of preparation, detail-oriented teamwork, and the ability to think critically in real-world scenarios—values that have long been hallmarks of Starehe’s training approach.

Beyond these team and individual victories, Starehe Boys’ Centre was honored as the Most Disciplined and Self-Led School, a recognition of the scouts’ commitment to integrity, independence, and the Scout Law. This distinction reflected the school’s broader mission of nurturing well-rounded individuals who embody both discipline and leadership.

The competition, organized by the Kenya Scouts Association, highlighted the patrol system championed by Scouting’s founder, Lord Baden-Powell, where small, self-led units foster camaraderie, responsibility, and leadership. Starehe’s performance was a shining example of this principle in action, setting a high bar for scouting excellence across the country.

Speaking at the event, Frederic Kama-Kama, World Scouting Regional Director for Africa, praised Kenya’s role as a beacon for scouting in the region. Starehe’s achievements, he noted, not only brought pride to the school community but also reinforced the transformative impact of scouting in building responsible and capable young leaders.

From Byrone Orimba’s inspiring leadership to the Pacific Patrol’s observational triumph, and the school’s recognition for discipline and self-leadership, Starehe Boys’ Centre’s success at the Rowallan competition stands as a testament to the enduring value of scouting. Their triumph is more than a win—it is a call to future generations of scouts to uphold the values of service, leadership, and excellence in shaping a brighter future.