The government has issued a directive on school reopening countrywide following a second Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto to assess the effects of floods caused by the ongoing heavy rains.
President Ruto on May 2, 2024, chaired the meeting to deliberate on extra measures for mitigating the devastating effects of flooding, mudslides and landslides in many parts of the country.
The statement released by State House noted that the Cabinet endorsed the Ministry of Education’s decision to postpone the reopening of schools by one week.
Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Machogu in a circular on April 29, 2024, had directed schools to reopen on May 6.
According to the statement by State House, the Education ministry was directed to work with the National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF), so that funding is made available for repair and rehabilitation of destroyed infrastructure.
Cabinet on School Infrastructure
The Cabinet was also informed that infrastructure, including classrooms, dormitories, halls, toilets, latrines fences and perimeter walls, had been destroyed, highlighting the adverse effects of weather conditions on schools.
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Some schools have been flooded, while others are being occupied by people who have been displaced by mudslides, landslides and floods.
The Cabinet also noted that more citizens who have been affected by floods, mudslides and landslides are increasingly receiving help with food and non-food items from the government and other partners.
“Noting that flooding, mudslides, landslides and other extreme weather conditions are a result of climate change, Cabinet resolved that the government, from now on, will rally the country in implementing measures, programs and policies that will mitigate the effects of climate change,” the statement adds.
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Further, State House announced that the Cabinet was briefed on the weather forecast for the next three months, stating that the forecast shows that average to above average rains will continue in all parts of the country.
Consequently, flooding is expected in low-lying areas as are landslides and mudslides according to the forecast.
Cyclone Hidaya
According to State House, the Coastal region has been listed as a crucial, as it is likely to experience Cyclone Hidaya, which will result in heavy rainfall, large waves and strong winds that could affect marine activities in the Indian Ocean.
Among other things deliberated by the Cabinet was the approval of the expansion of the Manda Bay Airfield runway in an aim to bolster the country’s security.
“The Cabinet also approved the expansion of the Manda Bay Airfield runway in Lamu. This project will enhance Kenya Defence Forces’ capability to defend the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the statement adds.
These new directives to the Ministry of Education comes after President Ruto ordered all Kenyans living within areas prone to the effects of the heavy rains to vacate within 48-hours.
The head of state gave the order after chairing a Cabinet Meeting aimed at discussing additional measures set to be undertaken by the government in response to the effects of the ravaging floods.
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