Families of Mukumu Girls' tragedy victims to recieve Sh400, 000 compensation

Families of students who died as a result of reported food and water contamination at Mukumu Girls' High School will recieve compensation.

Speaking on Wednesday during a Senate plenary session, Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Education Ezekiel Machogu said the compensation has been capped at Sh400, 000 per family.

Three students died during the period of first term in 2023, after reportedly consuming contaminated water and food at the Kakamega county school.

One teacher died as as result of the tragedy. Over 100 learners were hospitalised in various hospitals across the country.

The CS said the families will be compensated through the Edu Afya Insurance cover.

"The Ministry, through the regional and county offices and the school's management, has provided guidance and support to the bereaved families in pursuing these claims for payment," he told the Senators.

Additionally, the CS told legislatures that the government catered for medical bills of the learners who were hospitalised.

The school was closed down for three weeks on April 3, 2023, after the death of three students following an outbreak of diarrhoea.

Following the incident, former Principal Fridah Ndolo was transferred, with Jane Mboone taking over.

Learning resumed after schools reopened for second term.