The government has heightened security measures for the Christmas and New Year school holidays, warning that the long break poses increased risks to learners across the country.
The Ministry of Education has directed all counties to remain alert to threats that could compromise children’s safety before schools reopen in January 2026.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba said the 60‑day holiday must be treated as a national security priority, citing concerns ranging from early marriages and drug abuse to criminal exploitation of minors. He said the government expects all agencies to maintain vigilance through the peak festive period to ensure learners return to school safely.
Security teams in all 47 counties have been tasked with monitoring a wide range of risks, including female genital mutilation, gang recruitment, child labour, cult activities, sexual exploitation and harmful post‑circumcision practices.
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These operations are being coordinated through multi‑agency structures involving the Interior and Education ministries.
Earlier, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen had warned that any lapse in protecting children during the holiday would not be tolerated, directing security managers to take firm action against individuals or groups endangering minors.
“It will not be excusable for any security manager to lapse in any of the areas we have mapped out,” Murkomen said, urging firm action against anyone endangering children’s welfare
Nairobi Regional Commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo said enforcement efforts are particularly focused on informal settlements, where children face heightened vulnerability. He noted that some cases involve parents or relatives drawing minors into criminal activities, including narcotics and illicit brews.
Police stations and patrol units have also been instructed to work closely with chiefs and community policing groups to identify locations where children may be exposed to drugs, alcohol, gambling or sexual exploitation. Parents or guardians will be required to account for any child found in such environments.
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Authorities have also appealed to families to take an active role in supervising children during the holiday, stressing that security operations cannot replace parental responsibility.
Parents have been urged to monitor their children’s movements, online activity and peer interactions, especially during the festive season when oversight tends to weaken.
Additionally, the government has indicated that monitoring will continue even after schools reopen, with post‑holiday assessments planned to identify areas where learners fail to return to class.
By Masaki Enock
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