Nairobi Schools Strengthen Anti-Bullying Initiatives

Schools across Nairobi have rolled out enhanced anti-bullying programmes following growing concerns from parents, teachers, and education stakeholders over rising cases of physical and online harassment among learners. The new measures—driven by the Ministry of Education in partnership with child-protection groups—include expanded guidance and counselling sessions, peer mentorship clubs, digital-safety awareness lessons, and stricter reporting procedures for affected students. Head teachers say the initiative aims to create safer, more supportive learning environments especially for learners transitioning into junior secondary.
Over the past year, schools in Westlands, Lang’ata, and Kasarani reported increased incidents of emotional bullying, cyberbullying, and group intimidation, partly linked to social media misuse among teenagers. In response, teachers have undergone specialised training on identifying early warning signs, handling sensitive disclosures, and mediating student conflicts. Several schools have introduced safe spaces run by counsellors where learners can speak privately about their challenges without fear of punishment or stigma.
The initiative has been met with strong support from parents, many of whom say bullying often goes unreported until it becomes severe. Parent associations have now been included in school advisory committees to help monitor student behaviour and ensure cases are addressed promptly. Students, too, are taking an active role through anti-bullying clubs, drama skits, debates, and awareness campaigns encouraging kindness, empathy, and responsible digital behaviour. Some institutions have even implemented anonymous reporting boxes to give victims more confidence to speak up.
Looking ahead, Nairobi County plans to integrate anti-bullying frameworks into school policies and link them with mental-health support services already being expanded in several institutions. Education officials suggest that continuous community involvement, digital-safety training, and peer-led interventions will determine the long-term success of the initiative. If fully implemented, the strengthened measures could significantly reduce bullying incidents and ensure a more positive, inclusive school atmosphere across the city.