Outrage in Kilifi as Pupils Forced to Recite Hindu Prayers for Food, County Suspends Relief Program
Shock and fury have erupted across Kilifi County after a viral video showed schoolchildren being forced to recite Hindu prayers before receiving meals. The disturbing footage triggered immediate action from authorities, leading to the suspension of food programs in 17 schools.
Pupils Made to Pray Before Eating
In the video, children appeared visibly confused and uncomfortable as they struggled to recite unfamiliar religious chants. Some sat quietly, reading prayers written on classroom boards. In another clip, a head teacher actively led the prayer session while holding food.
“We have stopped the children’s foundation from supplying food to our schools until further notice,” Kilifi County Commissioner Josphat Kibiwott announced.
“If you want to help, do so in a good way—not by forcing learners into practices that are clearly wrong,” he added.
Sudden Changes Raise Alarm
Kibiwott revealed that the food program had been running since 2019 without incident. However, changes were introduced this third term after a meeting in Mombasa involving 16 primary schools and one high school.
“In August, we received a report that some schools had changed the system of food distribution,” he explained.
The new routine allegedly required pupils to recite Hindu prayers before receiving meals, sparking widespread condemnation.
Religious Coercion Sparks Public Uproar
“No child should be coerced to compromise their beliefs for food or education,” the group stated.
Portraits linked to the Krishna Foundation were also spotted hanging in staffrooms, raising further questions about the influence of religious organizations in public schools.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine how the changes were implemented and who authorized them. Meanwhile, the food program remains suspended until further notice.
“We are treating this matter seriously. Children must be protected from religious manipulation,” Kibiwott emphasized.
An image showing a person serving Githeri on January 27, 2025.
Parents and community leaders have expressed outrage, demanding accountability and transparency.
“We send our children to school for education, not indoctrination,” said a concerned parent.
As the probe continues, Kilifi residents are calling for stricter oversight of donor programs in schools to prevent future violations.
ALSO READ: Outrage as Journalist Collins Kweyu Freed After Detention Over Bribery Story
Outrage in Kilifi as Pupils Forced to Recite Hindu Prayers for Food, County Suspends Relief Program
