Government officials in Kilifi have suspended a feeding program run by the Krishna Children’s Foundation after a viral video showed pupils being compelled to recite Hindu prayers before receiving meals.
The footage, filmed in Ganze Sub-County, captured learners from more than 17 schools chanting religious verses, in some cases under the instruction of head teachers. The clip sparked widespread outrage after circulating on social media.
Kilifi County Commissioner Josephat Kibiwott confirmed that the program had been halted indefinitely following a meeting with the County Education Team.
“Tumesimamisha hiyo Krishna Children’s Foundation from supplying food to our schools because tuliona sio nzuri. Kama unataka kusaidia, saidia kwa njia mzuri… sio kulazimisha wanafunzi wafanye mambo ambayo sio mazuri vile mumeona kwa hizo video clips,” Kibiwott said.
Authorities further disclosed that the organization had been operating without proper clearance from education officials. Hindu teaching materials found in the affected schools have been confiscated as investigations continue.
The suspension raises concerns over the welfare of hundreds of pupils in drought-hit Ganze, where school feeding programs are critical to keeping children in class.
