Learning activities have not fully resumed in some schools in Baringo County as reports indicate at least five schools remain closed.
The schools which include Ngelecha, Kosile, Ngaratuko, Kagir and Chemorongyon primary schools were vandalized by armed bandits who had turned the institutions into their hideouts.
Ngelecha Primary School Vice Chair Kibii Arap Tanykor says bandits took over the institution in 2008 leading to its closure and subsequent deregistration as an exam centre.
“Bandits vandalized our school and destroyed everything. They also burnt books and other learning materials. What even shocked us is that the criminals camped and herd stolen animals in the school without fear,” he noted.
Speaking to the press, he noted that over 70 per cent of residents have fled their homes so far, with hundreds of children dropping out of schools as a result of attacks.
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Kibii now wants decisive measures taken to ensure learning resumes in the affected schools, noting that tension remains high in the area despite the heavy police presence.
“Our candidates sat their KCPE exams in Kimoriot Primary School in 2012, 2013 and 2014. But we did not have candidates in the following years and in 2017, our school was deregistered. We did not get any support from security apparatus, hence we were forced to flee. However, we are planning to return soon,” added Kibii.
The Area Human Rights champion Richard Chepchome echoed the sentiments, saying delayed reopening and operationalisation of the schools deprives children in the area their rights to access education.
Scores of residents have been killed and thousands of livestock stolen by bandits, with Baringo South, Baringo North and areas situated along boundaries being the worst hit.
By Kimutai Langat
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