Kiambu woman representative Anne Wamuratha during an empowerment meeting at Mwihoko on May 29, 2026/ ALICE WAITHERAKiambu Woman Representative Anne Wamuratha has launched a free counselling programme for students and parents affected by recent school tragedies.
The initiative came as concerns grow over the psychological impact of a series of incidents that have rocked learning institutions across the country this year, including the tragic fire that claimed the lives of 16 learners at Utumishi Girls' Academy on May 28.
Wamuratha expressed concern over the emotional toll such incidents continue to have on learners and school communities, adding that many affected students may be carrying emotional wounds that require professional support to heal.
She said her office has opened its doors to students and parents seeking counselling services, adding that the support programme aims to provide a safe space for healing and recovery.
"The pain, fear and trauma caused by the recent tragedies in our schools are real, and no student or parent should carry that burden alone. If you or your child is struggling emotionally, I urge you to visit my office, where a mental health specialist is waiting," she said.
The MP said several learners have already begun receiving psychological support through the programme and urged more families affected by traumatic incidents to seek professional help before emotional challenges escalate.
Traumatic experiences can affect children's emotional wellbeing, academic performance and social development if left unaddressed, leading to anxiety, depression, nightmares, withdrawal from social activities, difficulty concentrating and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Wamuratha urged parents to pay close attention to behavioural changes among children, noting some learners may appear calm while silently battling the effects of trauma.
"We are requesting parents whose children have gone through trauma, whether from Utumishi or any other school, to bring them for professional support," she said.
The counselling services are being offered free of charge through her office in Kiambu Town and are available to all residents of Kiambu county.
The launch of the programme comes at a time when stakeholders in the education sector are calling for greater attention to students' mental health amid rising concerns over school safety and wellbeing.
In recent months, schools across the country have reported cases of unrest, suspected arson attacks and student protests, prompting renewed calls for stronger guidance and counselling programmes in learning institutions.
Education experts have linked some of the unrest cases to stress, peer pressure, mental health challenges and difficulties in adapting to school environments, especially among adolescents.
Wamuratha emphasised that recovery from traumatic experiences requires sustained support from parents, teachers and mental health professionals.
"Let us not assume that all is well. Our children need trauma therapy and emotional support so they can recover fully and continue with their education in a healthy state of mind," she said.
Her office has stationed a mental health specialist to provide counselling and psychosocial support to affected families.
As schools continue with learning activities following the recent tragedies, Wamuratha called on parents to ensure they seek professional support whenever they notice their children struggling with emotional or mental distress.
The initiative has been welcomed by residents and education stakeholders, who say accessible mental health services will play a critical role in helping students regain confidence, return to normal learning and rebuild their lives after the tragedies.
Instant analysis
The launch of free counselling services in Kiambu reflects growing recognition of the deep psychological impact of recent school tragedies on learners and parents. The initiative comes against a backdrop of rising cases of school fires, unrest and student distress, highlighting gaps in structured mental health support within the education system. By offering psychosocial assistance, the programme aims to help affected families cope with trauma, restore emotional stability and support learning continuity. However, its long-term effectiveness will depend on sustained funding, the integration of mental health services in schools, and broader national strategies addressing student welfare, safety and emotional resilience across institutions.
