Mufutu Primary in Lugari, Kakamega County, is staring at a possible closure after the public health office issued a 31-day ultimatum for the school to construct 33 new latrines.
The school relies on five only to serve 843 pupils, according to headteacher Kizito Nabwana. The lavatories are also used by teachers, thus posing a serious health risk to the school community.
A total of 449 boys are using two latrines as 394 girls depend on three, against public health guidelines. A public health report reveals that the five latrines are capable of serving 125 pupils only.
“We are supposed to put up 16 new latrines for girls, 15 for boys, and two latrines for teachers or close down,” Mr. Nabwana said.
He added that following the closure notice, the school conducted a quick fund drive that raised Kshs 100, 000 that has helped start constructing six latrines.
The headteacher is now appealing to the area MP Ayub Savula to intervene through the National Government Constituency Development Fund (CDF).
Sam Oduor is the editor-in-chief at the Western Kenya Times who leverages the power of the Internet in telling stories that shape opinions.
