Kericho, September 24, 2025 — Tension remains high in Kericho County after students of Tengecha Boys High School staged a strike that spilled over into the neighbouring Tengecha Girls High School, forcing local traders from Kapkatet town to intervene and provide security.
The dramatic scenes unfolded late Tuesday night when the boys, reportedly agitated over unresolved grievances, began chanting and pelting stones within the school compound. Their noise and movement alarmed their counterparts at the girls’ school, located just a short distance away. Fearing that the unrest could escalate towards their dormitories, the girls screamed for help, prompting Kapkatet’s business community to respond immediately.
Kapkatet Traders Respond With Rungus
According to eyewitnesses, dozens of traders and boda boda operators rushed to the school armed with rungus, sticks, and clubs to guard the girls’ compound. They stationed themselves at the gate and perimeter to deter any attempt by the boys to cross over.
“We heard the girls screaming and we knew they were terrified. As members of this community, we couldn’t just sit back. We had to ensure they felt safe,” said one trader who stood guard until dawn.
Local administrators and police officers later joined the residents to restore order, but community members insisted their swift action helped avert a possible tragedy.
Cause of the Strike Still Unclear
The exact reason behind the boys’ unrest remains unclear. Some students claimed the protest was sparked by dissatisfaction with school administration decisions, while others linked it to grievances about food and disciplinary measures. Authorities have yet to confirm the cause, but education officials promised a comprehensive investigation.
Kericho County Education officials condemned the strike, urging students to pursue dialogue rather than destruction. “There are proper channels to air grievances. Destroying property or threatening the peace of others only hurts your education and your community,” an officer noted.
Security Fears at Tengecha Girls
The incident has left parents and teachers at Tengecha Girls shaken. Many parents rushed to the school at night after hearing about the chaos, worried about their children’s safety. School management has since reassured them that no student was physically harmed.
Still, the screams of distress highlighted the vulnerability of girls’ schools when unrest occurs nearby. “We couldn’t sleep; the commotion was too close. When we heard voices outside, we thought they would come for us,” said a Form Three student at Tengecha Girls.
Community Tensions Rise
The strike has once again reignited debate about the growing trend of unrest in secondary schools across Kenya. Just last week, several schools in the Rift Valley region reported cases of indiscipline and destruction of property, raising questions about student management, guidance, and communication between school administrations and learners.
In Kapkatet, residents have vowed to continue watching over the girls’ school until calm fully returns. “These are our daughters and sisters. We can’t take chances when emotions are high across the road,” said another trader.
Authorities Promise Action
By Wednesday morning, security officers had restored calm at both schools. Tengecha Boys’ students were confined to their dormitories as administrators met to decide on disciplinary measures. Police patrols around the area have been intensified to prevent further escalation.
Kericho County Commissioner assured parents and stakeholders that the situation was under control and investigations were underway to identify the masterminds of the strike. “We will not tolerate lawlessness. Those found responsible will face disciplinary and legal action,” he said.
Meanwhile, education officials urged students from both schools to remain calm as efforts to resolve the matter continue. Parents, on the other hand, are demanding accountability and preventive measures to ensure their children are not exposed to danger again.
Looking Ahead
As calm slowly returns, many in Kapkatet are reflecting on the night of chaos and the swift response from the community. While the strike highlighted underlying frustrations among students, it also showcased the protective role local residents can play in safeguarding schools.
For now, all eyes remain on Tengecha Boys’ administration and the Ministry of Education to see what steps will be taken to address the grievances and prevent similar incidents in the future.
