This archive report was first published on 12 November 2021.
At least 30 schools in Kenya have been destroyed in recent fires, prompting lawmakers to demand answers from Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha.
On November 12, 2021, the National Assembly Committee on Education directed Magoha and Basic Education Principal Secretary Dr. Julius Jwan to provide a comprehensive report on the causes of the fires within seven days.
Parents are now facing a mountain of bills to repair the damages, with some schools having to pay for the destruction caused by their children.
"The ministry should provide a detailed report within seven days so that we can wage a way forward in arresting the current situation," said Busia Women Rep Florence Mutua, the committee chair.
Lawmakers also called for thorough investigations and for those involved to be brought to book.
"We have some schools with over 500 Form One students, way above their capacity, while others with a capacity of 200 students have 50 learners. The government should distribute these students equally to ensure balance in all institutions," said Kabondo Kasipul MP Eve Obara.
Chief Administrative Secretary Sarah Ruto said investigations are ongoing, with the ministry looking at past incidents and the current situation to get to the root of the problem.
