This archive report was first published on 3 September 2019.
On September 3, 2019, the Kenyan government announced a plan to relocate 60,000 people from the Mau Forest, sparking concerns about the impact on local schools.
As part of the relocation efforts, the government had ordered the closure of 15 schools in the area, citing concerns about the safety of students.
However, in a surprise move, the government has now reversed its decision, allowing the schools to reopen and enabling students to take their national exams without disruption.
The decision was made after the government received criticism from various quarters, including the Deputy President William Ruto, who had expressed concerns about the impact of the relocation on education.
According to Ruto, every child has the right to education, and it is the government's responsibility to ensure that they receive it.
The 15 schools that were affected by the closure include Kirobon, Senetwet, Kapsilibwo, Kitoben, Indianit, Kabarak, Noosagami, Chorwet, Ogilge, and Sebetet, among others.
The government's decision to reopen the schools has been welcomed by parents and students, who had been worried about the impact of the closure on their education.
"Kila mtoto ana haki ya kuwa shuleni sio tafadhali. Hiyo ni jukumu la serikali kuhakikisha wanapata elimu. Hata walio kwenye Msitu wa Mau hawatasaulika," Ruto had said earlier.
