AC Butonge Boys’ High School in Bungoma West Sub-County has experienced a powerful storm that uprooted numerous trees and carried away the roof tops of eight classrooms, dorms and teachers quarters.
Speaking to the press at the school premises, the school Deputy Principal Timothy Muyekho said that the calamity struck on Monday, shortly after half-past 2 PM, while some students were in the middle of exams leaving them together with their teachers and non-teaching staff traumatized.
“No student was physically hurt,” he added.
Furthermore, Muyekho stated that the school was left without power, as fallen trees had severed all connections to the power grid adding that this compounded their woes, as it hindered the school’s ability to pump water for essential use.
“All power lines connecting our school were cut off because trees fell on them, Kenya Power Lighting Company (KPLC) should move with speed and help us restore power,” he said.
Additionally, the Deputy Principal highlighted that over 320 students were directly affected by the storm as their bedding and books were washed away.
He further implored the County and National Governments to assist the school financially in rebuilding as the infrastructure has been decimated.
The school’s principal, Moses Kachisa, also emphasized the need for new classrooms, some of which dated back to 1952.
“Despite the extensive damage, there will be no indefinite closure of the school,” he stated.
Kachisa further highlighted that alternative arrangements have been made to accommodate affected students while lessons continue.
The Special Programs Director Caren Wanyonyi, has underscored the need for vigilance, citing similar incidents in other parts of Bungoma.
She has also attributed this devastating storm to the effects of climate change and impending el-nino rains.
The Director additionally mentioned that the department, in collaboration with the Kenya Red Cross, has initiated counseling sessions at the school.
She said that efforts are underway to provide essential support, including food, to help the school community cope with this tragic event.
By Tony Wafula
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