Five schools in Boni forests to re-open in January

Five schools closed in 2014 at the height of terror attacks in Lamu County will be reopened in January, Coast Regional Coordinator John Elungata has said.

The affected primary schools  - Basuba, Milimani, Mararani, Mangai, and Kiangwe - are near the expansive Boni Forest that had been invaded by terrorists.

Over 800 learners were either transferred to other schools while others dropped out.

Mr Elungata said more security personnel will be deployed to the schools deserted by teachers and pupils over attacks by Al Shabaab terrorists operating from the forest. 

Elungata told a public baraza at Kiangwe the government will commit resources to ensure the schools are re-opened.

"I would like to commend Lamu leaders for joining government efforts to reopen the schools. We want to assure residents there children will once again be able to attend schools near their homes. We know some parents are not happy their children have to live far from home to go to school," he said.

He added: "The government will also ensure there are enough teachers who will be staying with security personnel in their camps to ensure they are safe."

Yesterday, local leaders termed the plan timely.

Governor Fahim Twaha commended the national government efforts to reopen schools in the region and enhance access to education by resident.

"It is important that learning resumes in these schools as we aim to improve literacy levels in the county," said Twaha.

Women Rep Ruweida Obo lamented the schools had been closed for to long but lauded efforts to reopen them.

Lamu West MP Stanley Muthama said the move will also open up the county for investment in education, including in technical institutions.

Lamu East MP Athman Shariff o urged the national government to remain vigilant to ward off any attacks.