Tragedy as two students drown in River Tana during school trip

Two students from Tseikuru Senior School drowned in River Tana on Saturday during a school-organised swimming trip, turning what had been described as a routine outdoor training session into a tragedy.

The victims, a Grade Ten pupil and a Form Three student, were among a group of learners taken out of school for the activity.

A student who witnessed the incident said they were transported by the school bus under the impression they were heading to swimming pools near Kyuso market, but were instead taken to the river.

The learner further alleged that following the incident, the school administration attempted to silence students.

The Sub-County Police Commander described the drowning as unfortunate and urged teachers and caregivers to exercise caution when supervising learners during high-risk activities.

“It is an unfortunate incident. Teenagers are very adventurous, and such a situation could have been avoided if extra caution had been taken,” the officer said, confirming that investigations are ongoing.

Parents have since accused the school of withholding information about the trip.

“The head teacher told me he had not gone with my child, and when I asked for the list of students who had travelled, he refused to give it to me,” said Muithya Mbuvi, a parent.

“I am heartbroken. We had cleared all the school fees, and now my heart is heavy,” said Mawea Mueke, the mother of one of the boys.

Another parent, Mueni Kyalo, said her son had been looking forward to completing school and supporting the family.

“He used to tell me, ‘Mum, I will work hard and help you because I only have one year left to finish school,’” she said.

Parents are demanding accountability, questioning why students were taken to a fast-flowing river without lifeguards, safety equipment or prior notice to guardians.

The Tseikuru community remains in mourning as investigations continue, with calls for stricter safety measures during school activities.