BARINGO COUNTY — The Kenyan government, represented by Basic Education Principal Secretary Dr. Belio Kipsang, has committed to establishing low-cost boarding schools in areas plagued by cattle rustling and banditry. This initiative aims to provide a safer environment for education amidst the ongoing security challenges.
According to Kenya News Agency, who spoke at a public engagement event at Moinonin Primary School in Saimo Soi Ward, the government is responding to the pressing needs of communities affected by armed criminal activities by reconstructing over ten schools that bandits had vandalized in Baringo North and South Sub-Counties. He emphasized the government’s dedication to protecting lives and property in these regions, highlighting the strategic importance of educational infrastructure as a sanctuary for the community’s youth.
Dr. Kipsang was accompanied by Harry Kimtai (Medical Services), Amos Gathecha (Public Service), and Anne Wang’ombe (Gender), who collectively outlined additional supportive measures. These include the reintroduction of fortified porridge in schools to aid in mental development and government provisions like free sanitary towels to ensure uninterrupted study for girls, especially in junior secondary and primary schools in insecure areas.
The officials stressed the role of community cooperation in fostering a peaceful coexistence essential for regional development. Moreover, the introduction of a social health insurance program targeted for rollout at the end of June was highlighted by Kimtai, who encouraged parents to enroll their children to facilitate easier access to health services across various levels of medical facilities.
Baringo Deputy Governor Eng. Felix Kimaiyo and the head teacher of Moinonin Primary School, Petro Chirchir, voiced their support for these initiatives. Kimaiyo advocated for more comprehensive aid across all schools impacted by banditry, while Chirchir noted a significant increase in school enrollment following the implementation of the school feeding program. He stressed that schools offer the safest environments for children in the region and must be well-equipped and protected to continue serving as secure havens.