This archive report was first published on 20 September 2019.
On September 6, 2019, 14-year-old Jackline Chepngeno took her life in a tragic incident that has left many questioning the circumstances surrounding her death.
According to a preliminary report by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC), Jackline suffered shame in school, which ultimately led to her committing suicide. The report, signed by TSC CEO Nancy Macharia, reveals that despite the school having a sufficient supply of sanitary pads, Jackline was allegedly ridiculed by her teacher, Jennifer Chemutai, over a menstrual mess.
On the day of her death, there were 77 packets of sanitary pads in the store of Kabiangek Primary School in Konoin, Bomet. The school had received its full consignment of sanitary towels for the second term, as stated in the report.
Jackline's mother, Beatrice Kirui, confirmed to the investigation team that her daughter had left one packet of unused sanitary pads at home. However, this contradicts the statement recorded by Ms. Chemutai, who claimed that she neither ridiculed nor sent Jackline home.
Ms. Chemutai stated that after realizing Jackline had stained her uniform, she informed her that it was normal and left to bring pads. The investigators, however, alleged that she talked to Jackline 'politely'.
