Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has disclosed the number of schools in various counties that have not yet reopened despite the official directive.

During a press briefing on Monday, May 13, Mwaura reported that most of the schools that remained closed were in Nyeri County, primarily due to mudslides. According to Mwaura, a total of 44 primary schools and 27 secondary schools across the country have yet to reopen.

In Nyeri County, 12 primary and 16 secondary schools remain closed due to flooded classrooms and toilets. Mwaura added that the county’s hilly terrain exacerbated the situation, making it difficult for students to attend school.

Kisumu County has at least five schools still closed, affected by flooding from the overflowing Lake Victoria, which has submerged some educational institutions. In West Pokot County, two schools remain inaccessible after bridges leading to them were washed away.

Nakuru County has one school still closed, as it is being used to shelter flood victims displaced by the heavy rains. Additionally, in Kirinyaga County, a secondary school with a sunken toilet has postponed its reopening to later this week. Meanwhile, 10 schools in Kilifi County remain closed.

Mwaura urged parents and guardians to exercise caution and ensure their children's safety when traveling to and from school, particularly at 6 am and 6 pm. He also advised school administrations to stay updated with relevant departments to avoid sending children to school during flooding or mudslide conditions.

"National and County Multi-Agency teams are working to ensure repairs are made to create a safe environment for students to resume learning," Mwaura stated.

The delay in reopening is due to heavy rains and flooding that have submerged several schools and damaged key infrastructure. Mwaura noted that the government has incurred a Ksh80 billion loss due to the floods, with road infrastructure being the most affected.