Gov’t stops relief food programme in 17 Kilifi schools after children forced to recite Hindu prayers

Government officials in Kilifi have indefinitely suspended an organization from supplying food to 17 schools in Ganze after a viral clip emerged showing pupils compelled to pray as if they were members of the donor's religion before receiving relief food.

According to the Kilifi County Commissioner, an investigation into the matter has already been launched.

An amateur video recorded in Ganze stirred public outrage both locally and nationally after being shared widely on social media.

The footage shows hundreds of pupils from more than 17 schools seemingly compelled to make Hindu prayers before being served with meals.

In some schools, head teachers are captured on camera directing learners to recite Hindu prayers as part of the new routine before meals.

Other videos show pupils in secluded areas adhering to the directive.

Following a day-long meeting with the County Education Team, Kilifi County Commissioner Josephat Kibiwott ordered the immediate suspension of the food program of the organization implicated.

“Tumesimamisha hiyo Krishna Children’s Foundation from supplying food to our schools because tuliona sio nzuri. Kama unataka kusaidia, saidia kwa njia mzuri…sio kulazimisha wanafunzi wafanye mambo ambayo sio nzuri vile mumeona kwa hizo video clips,” said Kibiwott.

Kibiwott added that the organization, identified as Krishna Foundation, had been operating without proper disclosure to education officials.

Authorities have also confiscated several Hindu material from the affected schools as investigations continue.

But with the abrupt halt of the food program in drought stricken Ganze, the welfare of hundreds of pupils now hangs in the balance.