The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) Coast Region has commended President William Ruto’s directive to have schools remain closed until further notice due to the ongoing floods that have caused devastating effects in various parts of the country.
In a statement, NCCK Coast region chairperson Bishop Dr. Peter Mweru expressed the need for the Ministry of Education to thoroughly assess the condition of all schools in the country before allowing learners to resume their studies.
“We thus urge the Ministry of Education to prioritize the safety of learners by facilitating a thorough assessment of all learning facilities similar to the ongoing review of dams. Let there be a comprehensive report on the state of schools to avoid unnecessary risks and to inform necessary repairs,” Bishop Mweru stated.
He added that even though the directive left most parents unsure of when their children will resume learning, it is better than risking reopening schools on Monday with the current weather patterns which have been predicted to only get worse in the coming days.
While citing the railway cooperation’s move to extend the usage of Madaraka express tickets for students and their accompanying guardians, the cleric called upon bus companies to follow that example and offer the necessary support during this period.
“I would also like to ask the bus companies and other transport stakeholders to offer the necessary support needed during this period and lighten the financial burden on parents,” Bishop Mweru urged.
Kilifi County Governor Gideon Mung’aro said more than 10 schools have been affected by the flood.
He said the situation is worsening day by day adding that measures have been put in place to make sure that the affected people are put in a safe place.
