By Jehoshaphat Kanyoro Njaro
In a decisive move to ensure the safety of young learners, Kilifi Governor Gideon Mung’aro has ordered the immediate closure of all Early Childhood Development Education (E.C.D.E.) centers across the county.
This decision comes in the wake of severe winds that have battered the coastal region, causing significant damage and posing serious risks to the local community.
The strong winds, which have been sweeping through Kilifi, have resulted in widespread disruption. A student in Kaloleni passed away after being hit by a flying iron sheet due to the strong winds in the coastal region.
The coastal region’s vulnerability to such extreme weather events has been starkly highlighted by this recent natural occurrence.Governor Mung’aro’s directive follows a series of incidents where the winds uprooted trees and downed electricity poles, leading to road blockages in areas like Takaungu.
In response to these hazards, the governor emphasized the urgent need for precautionary measures to protect lives and prevent further damage.
“Given the current conditions, it is imperative that we prioritize the safety of our youngest and most vulnerable residents,” said Governor Mung’aro.
“The closure of E.C.D.E. centers is a necessary step until we can ensure a secure environment for their education.”
The governor has instructed the county disaster team to coordinate assistance for affected families,and keep them away from structures that could endanger their lives and to facilitate the clearing of blocked roads.
Local authorities are working tirelessly to restore normalcy. Efforts include clearing debris from fallen trees and repairing downed power lines to ensure the restoration of essential services.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has also been monitoring the situation closely, providing regular updates and advisories to help residents stay informed and prepared.
This period of extreme weather has once again brought to light the need for improved infrastructure and disaster preparedness in coastal regions like Kilifi.
As the community rallies to address the immediate challenges posed by the strong winds, there is also a growing call for long-term strategies to mitigate the impact of such events in the future.
For now, the focus remains on safeguarding the well-being of Kilifi’s residents, especially its young learners, as the county navigates through this challenging time.