Parents Raise Concerns Over Rising Injuries in Nairobi School Sports

Frustrated by a growing number of injuries in school sports, parent groups in Nairobi are demanding stronger safety measures in co-curricular athletic programmes. The concerns have gained traction after reports of student injuries during inter-school competitions, prompting calls for enhanced supervision, better protective gear, and stricter compliance with sports safety protocols.
In their appeal to school administrators and the Ministry of Education, parents are citing a recent study published by Kenyatta University that outlines a worrying prevalence of soft‑tissue injuries—such as sprains and contusions—among pupils participating in sports. They argue that many sports days and athletic meets proceed without adequate medical coverage, trained first‑aid responders, or warm‑up routines, increasing the risk of accidents and long-term physical damage.
Some parents also linked the issue to broader systemic challenges. They point out that while the Ministry of Education publicly supports athletics within the Competency‑Based Curriculum, implementation at school level often lags. Teachers and school games coaches, too, have been cautioned by the Teachers Service Commission about the use of over‑age players and unsafe practices. As one concerned parent put it, Sport is meant to build character, not hospital bills.
In response to the pressure, education officials say they are reviewing existing guidelines for school sports and considering mandatory injury-prevention training for games teachers. They also plan to work with parent associations to ensure that each school’s games budget includes funding for medical tents, first‑aid kits and trained personnel. If these proposals go ahead, Nairobi could see a safer environment for young athletes—where the benefits of sport don’t come at the cost of their health.