By Hyline Ocharo
Parents in the Gusii region have been urged to take extra precautions to safeguard their children during the ongoing school holidays as heavy rains continue to pound the area, leaving rivers dangerously swollen.
Olympic Schools Director, Zachary Onduso, made the appeal following a tragic incident last week in which two people were swept away by the raging waters of River Gucha, underscoring the heightened risk facing children.
Speaking during a school closing ceremony, Onduso emphasized the critical role of parents in ensuring children’s safety.
“We are experiencing heavy rains and our rivers are swollen. I want to urge parents to ensure their children do not go near these rivers or attempt to swim. Their safety is our collective responsibility,” said Onduso.
He noted that the holiday period often leaves children unsupervised, increasing their vulnerability to such dangers.
“It is during holidays that children have a lot of free time. Parents must step up and guide them properly to avoid preventable tragedies,” he added.
Onduso’s sentiments were echoed by a parent, Daniel Morang’a, who also raised concern over rising insecurity in the region following the brutal killing of a Grade Five pupil in Ibencho, Bomachoge.
Morang’a condemned the incident, linking such crimes to the abuse of illicit brews and drugs.
“The murder of that young pupil is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Such heinous acts are often fueled by illicit brews and drug abuse, which impair people’s judgment,” he said.
He called on local administrators to intensify efforts to curb the vice in order to protect communities and secure the future of children.
“I urge chiefs and sub-chiefs to strengthen the crackdown on illegal alcohol and drugs. We must act now to save our children and restore sanity in our society,” he added.
Residents called for heightened awareness and vigilance, with a strong appeal to both parents and authorities to prioritize the safety and well-being of children.