Mombasa:Parents in the coastal city of Mombasa have been urged to take full responsibility for their children’s safety and moral upbringing during the extended school holiday season. The break, which runs from October 26, 2026, to January 1, 2027, follows the conclusion of the school term.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mombasa politician Said Abdalla, commonly known as ‘Saido’, emphasized the importance of keeping children engaged during the holidays to prevent them from falling into social vices such as crime and drug abuse. He stressed that ensuring the safety of children is a collective responsibility involving parents, teachers, leaders, and society at large.
Abdalla highlighted the severe issue of drug and substance abuse in Mombasa, particularly among school-going children. Statistics from the County Department of Health reveal that 25 percent of youth aged 15-24 in the county use drugs, significantly higher than the national average of 6 percent. He warned that unsupervised children are at risk of negative peer pressure and exploitation.
The politician, who is running for the Nyali parliamentary seat, expressed his commitment to strengthening education if elected. He plans to prioritize investment in basic education, viewing it as crucial for shaping the future of children and the country’s development.
Maweni Junior Primary and Secondary School principal Saumu Salim also urged parents to involve their children in positive community activities during the holidays. She emphasized the importance of knowing their whereabouts and ensuring they remain engaged in constructive pursuits without causing burnout. This aligns with the goals of the Competency-Based Education (CBE) system, which encourages learning new skills during the break.
