New Safety Protocols Rolled Out for Nairobi Schools After Recent Incidents

In January and February 2025, Nairobi schools rolled out new safety protocols following recent incidents, including infrastructure audits, transport reforms, and stricter compliance enforcement.
On January 5, 2025, as schools reopened for Term 1, the Ministry of Education announced heightened safety measures across Nairobi and other counties. This followed a series of incidents in late 2024 involving overcrowded dormitories, blocked emergency exits, and hygiene lapses. Out of 348 schools flagged for safety violations nationwide, several in Nairobi—including Happyland School in Buru Buru—were temporarily blacklisted until they met revised safety standards. Schools were required to install emergency exits, improve dormitory spacing, and comply with sanitation protocols before reopening.
In response to transport-related safety concerns, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) introduced the Draft Traffic (School Transport) Rules 2025 on February 5, 2025. These regulations mandate that all school buses display the words SCHOOL BUS prominently and include signage such as DO NOT PASS WHEN RED LIGHTS ARE FLASHING. Vehicles must also feature a complaints hotline for reporting reckless driving. The NTSA emphasized that these rules aim to protect children during daily commutes and will be enforced through random inspections and licensing reviews.
Beyond infrastructure and transport, Nairobi schools have begun implementing community-based safety education. A parent-led initiative launched in August 2025—supported by SurviSec Technologies—introduced a guide titled Beyond the School Gate: 7 Critical Safety Rules for Kids in Nairobi. The program equips learners with skills to navigate urban environments safely, covering topics like stranger awareness, emergency contacts, and safe commuting. Schools are encouraged to integrate these lessons into life skills curricula and host regular safety drills.
Education stakeholders have praised the multi-pronged approach, noting that it reflects a growing commitment to learner wellbeing and institutional accountability. The Ministry of Education is expected to publish a national school safety scorecard by December 2025, tracking compliance and highlighting best practices. Nairobi County officials have pledged to support schools with technical audits, training, and emergency preparedness resources.