ICC Note

Three Lamu County schools have closed again. This is due to the numerous attacks that took place in the last quarter of 2017 in Lamu, Kenya, and the high security risk that schools and pupils feel there is in the area. Al-Shabaab continues to threaten the lives and wellbeing of all citizens, but especially Christians, in Lamu. The government has said that they believe the area to be secure and safe, but this has not reassured those families. Many of the families who were attack in the past three months are still living in IDP camps in nearby towns.

2018-01-04 Kenya (TheStar) A file photo of children waiting for buses at Hindi area in Lamu county.

Several schools in Lamu did not open on Tuesday as teachers and pupils kept away due to insecurity caused by al Shabaab.

The most affected areas are Basuba, Milimani, Mangai, Mararani and Kiunga.

Boni Enclave campaign director Joseph Kanyiri has, however, said the area is fairly stable and that teaching can take place.

“The security situation has really improved. Teachers and civil servants should go back to work,” he said on Wednesday.

Kanyiri lashed out at teachers who are reluctant about reporting back to work, saying they will not allowed to only teach in their comfort zones.

“Kenyans are entitled to government services and so any dithering will be dealt with expeditiously. People should stop fretting, panicking and being timid n the name of security concerns. The security in Basuba is fairly stable so learning can take place.”

Meanwhile, more than 400 pupils from Basuba in Lamu East are yet to know the fate of their schools which have remained closed for three years owing to insecurity.

Parents and pupils had been hopeful that the schools would re-open this year.?” Fatma Ali, a resident, asked.

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