ODM Secretary General Catherine Omanyo Calls for Expansion of Day Schools Following Deadly Wave of School Arson Attacks

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Nairobi, Kenya – Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) Acting Secretary General and Busia Woman Representative Catherine Omanyo has called for increased investment in day schools and a gradual shift away from the boarding school model, arguing that such a move could help address the growing cases of unrest and arson attacks in learning institutions.

Speaking in response to recent school fires that have rocked several schools across the country, Omanyo said parents would prefer having their children attend day schools if work and family responsibilities allowed them to spend more time at home.

“The children I met in Kenyatta Hospital could be my daughters because some of us who are very busy are taking children to boarding schools not because we like it. If we were able to juggle work and taking care of our children, they would be with us and many would be in day schools,” she said.

Her remarks come amid heightened concern over a series of arson incidents that have disrupted learning in several institutions. The most tragic incident occurred at Utumishi Girls Academy Senior School in Gilgil, Nakuru County, on May 28, 2026, where a dormitory fire claimed the lives of 16 students and left 79 others injured.

The incident sparked renewed debate on student welfare, school management, and the pressures facing learners in boarding institutions.

Omanyo argued that strengthening day schools could help reduce tensions that sometimes build up in boarding environments, while allowing parents to play a more active role in their children's daily lives and emotional well-being.

She noted that family support and closer parental supervision are critical in addressing behavioral challenges among learners and preventing situations that may escalate into violence or destruction of school property.

The legislator's comments come as several schools, including Nairobi School, Asumbi Girls High School and Lenana School, reportedly sent students home amid concerns over rising unrest ahead of the school holidays.

Education stakeholders have increasingly called for comprehensive measures to address student grievances, improve counseling services, and strengthen communication between school administrators, learners, and parents.

Omanyo urged policymakers to prioritize investments in accessible and well-equipped day schools across the country, saying such institutions could offer quality education while fostering stronger family bonds and enhancing student welfare.

As investigations into the recent arson incidents continue, the debate over the future of Kenya’s boarding school system is expected to remain a key topic in education policy discussions.

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