Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo has called for urgent national intervention to stop the increasing number of school fires in the county.
Speaking on Wednesday, September 17, Governor Kilonzo warned that if the issue is ignored, the safety and well-being of students could be at serious risk. The incidents are particularly concerning as schools are in the critical third term.
In the past week, two schools in Makueni Mbooni Boys High School and Kalawa have been destroyed by fire. Governor Kilonzo said this trend is dangerous and requires immediate attention.
He urged security agencies to meet with school boards and come up with strong strategies to prevent more fires. “In Makueni and other counties, school fires are increasing, especially in secondary schools. If action is not taken, the fires will continue. I do not want to hear of an injured child. This may not be entirely our jurisdiction, but we cannot ignore it,” he said.
Education stakeholders in the county are also calling on school heads and parents to engage with students. Understanding the root causes of these fires is essential for taking swift and effective action.
Governor Kilonzo emphasized that a coordinated approach involving the national government, security agencies, school management, and parents is needed to protect students and prevent further damage.
With the frequency of school fires rising, the county leadership is urging immediate action to safeguard students and ensure the continuation of learning during this critical term.