Dark arts blamed for poor results, low enrollment at Shinyalu school

To residents of Madioli in Shinyalu Constituency, witchcraft is to blame for the dwindling numbers of students in a local primary school.

The once-vibrant Madioli Primary School is now a pale shadow of its former self.  From more than 600 pupils a few years ago, only 115 are remaining.

residents are pointing fingers at the dark activities of witches and sorcerers from two clans that have been competing for its management.

Residents say teachers posted to the institution rarely last with many opting to seek a transfer.

“There has been fierce competition between Bayokha and Batura clans over the running of the school,” said Karoli Khatiakala, an elder.

“There have been claims that some people get spotted in the school at night while practicing dark activities. This caused panic with parents withdrawing their children while teachers sought transfers,” he added.

The school registered less than 20 candidates for the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education examinations last year. None scored more than 250 marks.

During a public baraza last year, locals suggested that another school be established in the area.

MPs plea

On Saturday Shinyalu MP Fred Ikana promised to ensure normalcy is restored. During a meeting with elders, the MP was informed about a deep-seated mistrust among locals.

“Madioli is a school with a rich history and that is why I am concerned because it will be a big disaster if it goes down the drain,” he said.

The MP said while he was not superstitious, he urged anyone who may have performed some witchcraft activities at the institution to reverse them.