As schools reopened countrywide on Monday, several schools in Trans Nzoia are still facing challenges that may affect smooth and effective learning. According to the management of Chetoto primary school, located in the slums of Kipsongo on the outskirts of Kitale town, Saboti sub county, five candidates are expectant.
The school headmaster Samson Njenga said five candidates were impregnated during the long stay at home. He has attributed the increased cases of pregnancies to failure by parents to nurture and guide their kids.
He said those behind the cases are older men and in some instances secondary school students, noting that such behavior will negatively impact the performances of the girls. He has however urged the victims to go back to school and continue with their studies, adding that the school is willing to welcome them and offer assistance through the guidance and counselling department.
He said that his office is working together with administrative offices led by the chiefs to make sure the culprits behind the acts are brought to book.
Speaking on other challenges, he said the number of toilets available is insufficient after some were destroyed by heavy rainfall. A lack of water in the school, enough desks that will help to observe social distancing, lack of sufficient masks are also an impediment. He has urged area MP Caleb Amisi, the County government of Trans Nzoia and well wishers to chip in and help.
Elsewhere, a man was arrested and his home set ablaze by angry residents in Matisi for allegedly defiling three children. Francis Barasa, 50 years old, was beaten by angry residents after they found him with three children in his house, one was a Form two student and the others were primary school pupils.
The children left their homes on New Year’s Eve and went to the culprit’s house. Their parents claimed they had bene looking for them since the 1st of January this year, only to realize they were being held at the man’s house, who had locked them in.
Police officers arrived at the scene and rescued the man who was being beaten by the irate crowd. The officers had to lob teargas cannisters to disperse them and took him to Matisi police station, where he is being held. He is set to be arraigned in court.