The Ministry of Education (MoE) has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the death of three‑year‑old Faiz Faraji, a playgroup pupil at Gilgil Hills Academy in Nakuru County, who drowned in a fish pond within the school compound on March 27, 2026.
In a statement released on March 29, the Ministry described the incident as “painful and sorrowful” and extended condolences to the bereaved family. It emphasized the need for strict adherence to safety protocols in both public and private schools.
“The Ministry, working together with the relevant investigative agencies, has commissioned an inquiry into the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident, for appropriate action,” the statement read.
The family’s ordeal began when the school initially informed them that Faiz had been rushed to hospital due to illness and fever. Hours later, his body was discovered in a fish pond inside the school compound. Headteacher Joseph Kihato recounted efforts to resuscitate the boy before transferring him to Gilgil Sub‑County Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
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An autopsy conducted by pathologist Titus Ngulungu reportedly indicated death from lack of oxygen, consistent with drowning. However, relatives dispute the school’s narrative, claiming it contradicts the initial information they received.
Confusion deepened after some reports suggested the postmortem found no water in Faiz’s lungs or digestive system, pointing instead to severe head injuries. The family has since requested the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) homicide team to take over the case, seeking full access to CCTV footage and other evidence. The toddler reportedly went missing around 10:00 a.m. and was found about three hours later.
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The Ministry has pledged to pursue the matter to its conclusion, with findings from the inquiry expected to guide future safety measures in schools across the country.
By Masaki Enock
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