Homa Bay teachers warn of disaster as school latrines risk collapse
Homa Bay teachers warn of disaster as school latrines risk collapse
Teachers and education stakeholders in Karachuonyo have raised concerns about the poor state of sanitation in public schools, warning that deteriorating facilities put learners at risk.
Speaking during a local engagement, Teacher Jared Osati highlighted that many schools in the area are struggling with inadequate sanitation infrastructure, particularly toilets, which he described as a major health and safety concern for learners and staff.
He noted that some institutions are operating under difficult conditions despite efforts to improve learning facilities through the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations, which he said have largely focused on classroom construction.
“We must ensure that, whether before or after being elected as MP of Karachuonyo, we will work to improve sanitation in our schools,” he said.
Additionally, at nearby schools like Nyaburi Primary School, teachers say more than 100 learners require special attention, including children using wheelchairs or requiring assisted mobility.
However, they face additional challenges, particularly inadequate food provisions, which teachers say are not sufficient to support their daily needs.
Homa Bay Governor, Gladys Wanga, during a session of the Senate Public Accounts Committee on Tuesday, defended her county government’s expenditure of approximately Ksh 500,000 on the construction of a two-door pit latrine.
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She further told the Senators that the amount reflects standard costs associated with such projects in parts of the country.
“The standard cost is about half a million shillings. That covers excavation and construction,” she told the committee.
According to the governor, the final cost can vary depending on the terrain and site conditions, with some projects costing slightly less.
The explanation, however, sparked debate both inside and outside the Senate chambers, with many Kenyans questioning how a basic pit latrine could attract such a substantial price tag at a time when counties are facing growing financial pressures.
Educators are now calling for a shift in priorities, urging leaders to focus more on essential services such as sanitation, feeding programmes, and inclusive support systems to ensure no learner is left behind.
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