Schools will reopen for the second term next week despite continued heavy rain and flooding across the country.
Chief Secretary for Basic Education Berio Kipsang said on Thursday that the government had set up a multi-ministerial team to deal with the impact of the heavy rains.
Schools are scheduled to reopen for the second term from April 29th.
“I know we have had some good rain this year and yesterday the President directed a multi-agency team to help us deal with the challenges associated with the rain,” Kipsang said.
PS spoke dDuring the 1st Annual Symposium on Competency-Based Assessment in Nairobi.
Mr Berio said President William Ruto’s directive was part of the preparations the state was making to enable the smooth reporting of learners to schools next week.
“I can assure you that, as directed by the President, we are all prepared and looking forward to seeing our children back to school next week,” the PS said.
Kipsan added: “As a ministry, we, as part of a multi-agency team, will take appropriate steps with our colleagues to ensure the safety of children as they return to school next week.”
This comes after the Kenya Meteorological Department issued a heavy rain warning on Tuesday.
Weather forecasters have urged Kenyans to remain on high alert as heavy rain continues in many parts of the country.
The Japan Meteorological Agency is warning that rain will continue for the next seven days.
“Flooding is expected in low-lying areas, flood plains and poorly drained urban areas,” Bureau of Meteorology Director David Giekungu said.
He added that landslides can also occur on steep slopes where the soil is saturated.
Governor Gikungu advised road users to be especially careful during heavy rains, as poor visibility is likely to occur.
This warning also applies to aviators and boat operators.
Gikungu noted that heavy rain is expected, likely to be accompanied by strong winds, thunder and lightning.
It said large waves and strong winds could affect marine activities.
The forecast for 10 high-altitude counties in the eastern Rift Valley, including Nairobi, calls for rain to fall in several places in the morning, possibly spreading to multiple places.
Other districts include Nyandarua, Laikipia, Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang'a, Kiambu, Meru, Embu and Talaku Niti.
Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected in the afternoon and evening, possibly becoming widespread.
In the highlands west of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin and the Rift Valley, rain may fall in patches during the morning, possibly spreading to multiple locations.
Counties in these regions include Kisii, Nyamira, Nadi, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Siaya, Kisumu, Homabay, Busia and Migori.
Others include Narok, Baringo, Nakuru, Trans Nzoia, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet and West Pokot.
