This archive report was first published on 11 September 2019.
On the Kenya-Ethiopia border, a local school in conflict-prone Forole town faced a crisis when teachers failed to show up due to insecurity. Eleven people had been killed by suspected Ethiopian militia just days before.
Police Constable Jairus Mulumia, who was posted to Forole Primary School to protect the institution, took matters into his own hands. He decided to teach mathematics to the idle Grade Five pupils.
Constable Mulumia, a trained teacher, was reluctant to comment on the incident, citing his position does not permit him to speak to journalists unless granted a go ahead by his bosses.
However, Eastern Regional Police Commander Eunice Kihiko praised the officer's actions, saying it reflects the ongoing police reforms. Marsabit Police Commander Steve Oloo commended the officer for using his professional training to fill the gap left by teachers.
PC Mulumia's actions have been met with accolades from Kenyans and his bosses alike. He has been taking up lessons where teachers fail to report to duty to ensure that pupils do not miss out on their education.
Forole town has been hit by a wave of attacks by militia from Ethiopia, with more than 20 residents killed in the past few months. Over 120 children have also quit school and the boarding section closed over fears of more attacks.
