Government Starts To Evacuate IDPs From Schools

Government Starts To Evacuate IDPs From Schools.

North Eastern regional commissioner, John Otieno, announced plans to relocate internally displaced persons (IDPs) currently sheltered in school compounds ahead of the schools reopening on Monday.

Otieno revealed that discussions with various government agencies and the Kenya Red Cross had identified alternative camps for the IDPs’ relocation. This decision followed Otieno’s inspection of Hyuga Girls Primary School, one of the institutions hosting IDPs, to assess the flood situation.

Accompanied by his security team, Kenya Red Cross personnel, and education and county officials, Otieno assured a smooth relocation process, urging cooperation from the IDPs. According to the Kenya Red Cross, there are 13,770 IDPs housed in five institutions within the Garissa Township constituency, a consequence of the Tana River flooding.

Notably, Garissa hosts the highest number of IDPs across 11 camps, totaling 21,597 individuals. Otieno affirmed that IDPs at Hyuga Girls had agreed to vacate, while efforts would be made to convince those at Kasuku and Jaribu to relocate. He emphasized the need for immediate action, given the flooded classrooms, to ensure uninterrupted schooling by providing alternative shelters and relief supplies.

Fowzia Farah, representing IDPs at Hyuga Girls, expressed willingness to relocate but urged the government to supply essential items and food. However, concerns arose about the premature reopening of schools, particularly in Garissa, where IDPs occupy five learning institutions.

Environmentalist Abdikadir Aden argued for a postponement, citing the traumatic experiences of displaced children and the ongoing flood situation, advocating for a one-week delay until conditions improve.

Government Starts To Evacuate IDPs From Schools