Heavy Rains to Affect Exams in These Counties
The KCPE and KPSEA exams are set to officially commence on Monday, October 30th, 2023, and will span three days, concluding on November 1st, 2023.
However, the Kenya Meteorological Department has issued a warning of heavy rains anticipated to affect various regions of the country, starting from Friday, October 27th. The areas of particular concern, as highlighted in their advisory on Thursday, encompass Marsabit, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, Isiolo, Embu, Nyeri, Kiambu, Nyandarua, Laikipia, Murang’a, Meru, Kirinyaga, Tharaka Nithi, Kwale, and Mombasa.
This inclement weather forecast has raised concerns about its potential impact on the administration of the examinations. In a Status Update on Examination Preparedness report, certain flood-prone areas, including Nyakach, Nyando, lower sections of River Nzoia, lower areas of River Sondu, Narok Town, Suswa, Tana River Delta, and Mwatate, have been identified as “flooding hotspots.”
Furthermore, heavy and continuous rainfall is expected in various regions, such as the Lake Victoria Basin, Kisii, Elgeyo Marakwet, Bungoma, Trans Nzoia, West Pokot, Vihiga, Laikipia, Nakuru, and Narok counties. Flash floods may also occur in Lodwar, Lokichar, Nairobi, Naivasha, Nakuru, and Mombasa, while the risk of landslides is looming over West Pokot, Kericho, Elgeyo Marakwet, Mt Elgon, Narok, Nakuru, Baringo, Murang’a, Kitui, and Kilungu in Makueni County.
To ensure the smooth execution of the 2023 National Examinations, the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Kenya National Examination Council (Knec), has implemented various measures and reviews, emphasizing their commitment to delivering quality assessments.
However, the ministry may encounter challenges in regions experiencing heavy rains, necessitating the use of 15 helicopters for examination administration. The estimated cost for this endeavor is Sh500 million. The report suggests that the Kenya National Examination Council is coordinating with multiple agencies, including the Office of the Deputy President and the Kenya Defence Force, to secure the helicopters and other required resources.
Heavy Rains to Affect Exams in These Counties
Residents residing in the aforementioned counties have been urged to remain vigilant regarding potential flooding. The advisory, signed by Kennedy Thiong’o on behalf of the Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, highlights the expected intensification of heavy rainfall, particularly in the Northeastern and central parts of the country, extending to Northeastern, the Central Highlands, and the South Coast.
Also Read:Â Inaccessible Districts of Turkana to Receive Exams Via Helicopter
These rains are expected to be accompanied by gusty winds, and the advisory warns of potential floodwaters, even in areas that haven’t experienced heavy rainfall, especially downstream. The public is advised to avoid walking or driving in moving water, seek shelter away from trees and open fields during rain, and minimize exposure to lightning strikes.
Additionally, the advisory notes that the strong winds may cause structural damages, including roof damage and tree uprooting, and promises to provide prompt updates in case of any changes.
This advisory has been directed to various governmental bodies, including the Environment CS and PS, the Presidency, the National Intelligence Service, the Kenya Red Cross, the Kenya Maritime Authority, the Kenya Ports Authority, the National Disaster Operations Centre, the National Disaster Management Unit, the media, relevant government ministries, the Council of Governors, and the County Directors of Meteorological Services (CDMs).
