IRIN Report on the Consequences of Famine and Insecurity in Samburu

Posted on November 30, 2009 with 1 Comment

KENYA: In and out of school in Samburu

Photo: Ann Weru/IRIN

Classmates, Nabik Kekichorumongi and Kelly Lanyasunya of Lesidai Primary School have changed schools severally due to insecurity

LESIDAI, 10 November 2009 (IRIN) – Many Kenyan children are in school, but enrolment in the north has been adversely affected by insecurity, food scarcity and traditional attitudes, residents and teachers said.

“I just joined a new school a few weeks ago [20 October],” 14-year-old Kelly Lanyasunya said at Lesidai primary school in Samburu Central District (central-northwestern Kenya). “I got a new uniform and I am making friends but if this area gets insecure, I will have to move to another school.”

Like her classmate, Nabik Kekichorumongi, is forced to change schools whenever bandits attack the surrounding villages.

Stephen Leparachwo, head teacher at Lolkunono primary school in Samburu Central, said Lesidai primary school often receives parents bringing their children from Pura, a neighbouring area affected by banditry.

“When they come, some are even without food… The bandits follow the fleeing residents [and their cattle], not giving the children a chance to read,” he said.

To read to full report: http://www.irinnews.org/Report.aspx?ReportId=86968