Written by Naomi Chemutai
A 15yr old grade 8 learner from Gongoni primary school died days later after a corporal punishment administered by a teacher.
The 15yr old, Anestine Tunje, left home for school as usual on Thursday 18th September 2025. The girl reportedly returned home in the evening complaining of a severe headache but did not disclose what really happened. Despite her condition, she insisted on attending school the next day, citing upcoming exams. Her father recommended medical attention since the hospital was just nearby, but she chose to take painkillers instead, fearing she might miss the exams.
On Friday morning, Anestine complained of a persistent headache and her father took her to the nearest hospital to be treated and returned home. But on 21st September her condition worsened and she was rushed to Kilifi county referral hospital where she was admitted. Later on 25th September 2025, Anestine was admitted at the Intensive Care Unit where she later died while undergoing treatment.
The Police report says the accused teacher from Gongoni primary school administered corporal punishment to some grade 8 learners by ordering them to kneel down before caning them and striking others on the head.
The post mortem report indicates that Anestine died due to internal bleeding in the head caused by blunt force trauma consistent with assault.
Kilifi North Deputy county commissioner Mr. Samuel Mutisya has urged the teachers to follow the law regarding the discipline. He also said that if a child stops showing respect, it’s a good idea to talk to their parents, have a kind conversation and help the child learn how to behave nicely.
The accused teacher Mr. Ian Tembo Mwavuna was summoned by the police officers and on 1st October 2025 he was taken to police custody at Mtwapa police station.
Corporal punishment is prohibited by Kenyan Law.
The Basic Education Act 2013, Section 36 prohibits any form of physical punishment and mental harassment of pupils, making it an offense to subject a learner to torture, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, whether physical or psychological. A person found guilty of this offense is liable for a fine not exceeding one hundred thousand shillings, imprisonment not exceeding six months, or both.
The Kenya’s Constitution 2010, Article 53 Emphasises the best interest of the child and Article 29, prohibits torture,inhuman treatment or punishment.
And the Children’s Act 2022, Section 25(3) (b) (c) formally prohibits all forms of corporal punishment, repealing any prior rights to administer “reasonable punishment” to children.