Investigations after five Class 8 pupils drown in boat accident

CS Machogu said in a statement on Sunday that his ministry was collaborating with the Interior Ministry to conduct "thorough and conclusive investigations into the incident."

"Appropriate action will be taken on the basis of the findings of the investigations," the statement reads. 

"Teachers, parents and guardians are advised to avoid exposing learners to risky activities and environments, especially during the national examinations season,"

In the statement, CS Machogu also urged calm for those affected by the tragedy, including families, schools, and the community, saying the government will do everything possible 'to ensure the safety of candidates across the country during the 2023 national examinations season.'

He also sent condolences to the families, friends, and relatives of the deceased students. 

In the Saturday incident, five KCPE candidates were out for a fun day ahead of the national exams on Monday when their boat capsized at a man-made dam.

The five were part of a group of Standard Six and Standard Eight students accompanied by teachers to a hotel for recreational activities, according to a police report.

All five Standard Eight students drowned, while one Standard Six student survived and was taken to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital with acute low levels of oxygen.