Acts of Kindness
Clever 9-year-old in Kenya invents brilliant handwashing machine to stop coronavirus spread
This young man's invention is saving lives.. and he's only nine!
Haley Bean
07.21.20

There hasn’t been a lot of good news lately, between the election year and the pandemic, there has been a lot on people’s mind and a lot of strees and anxiety to follow. Therefore its always great to hear of someone doing something positive for their community to help in these trying times.

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This example doesn’t come from your everyday person though. We’ve heard stories of police, or parents doing good deeds, but this little boy from Kenya is doing his part to help the world and more importantly, his community.

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With only a few basic tools, wood, and a bucket, Stephen Wamukota invented his own hand washing machine to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Using a foot pedal mechanism, people are able to wash their hands without touching the surface, and with less contact comes less chances of spreading germs.

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“I had bought some pieces of wood to make a window frame, but when I came back home after work one day, I found Stephen had made the machine. The concept was his, and I helped tighten the machine. I’m very proud.” said Stephen’s father James in an interview.

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Stephen was inspired by news reports on the spread of the virus, but he took most interest in when they talked about ways to stop the spread. Since the first prototype, he has made a second one with the intention of making many more.

Facebook wasn’t the only one that praised Stephen for his invention. The Kenyan president awarded him the Presidential Order of Service Uzalendo (Patriotic)- a prestigious award only given to 68 others in the country.

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But the surprises didn’t end there. Stephen has big dreams of becoming an engineer someday and wants to go to college. When he told this to a reporter, the local governor promised to award the boy with a scholarship as soon as he was old enough to attend college.

Whats almost as great as the invention is the pride that Mr. Wamukota has for his son. “He is always saying he wants to build factories and become an engineer.” he said in an interview, “I hope he does, that he becomes a great person.

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And with all the attention this story has gotten, everyone that reads it is hoping for the same for Stephen. Doing good deeds at a young age is a great way to set yourself up for future success and Stephen couldn’t have picked a better opportunity to show off his big heart and generosity.

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