Muslim parents decry pork served at Kakamega High School

Muslim parents at Kakamega High School have expressed their indignation over the school administration’s decision to serve pork to students, raising concerns about religious sensitivity and dietary compliance.

The parents said the move exposed Muslim learners to possible contamination, noting that the consumption of pork is expressly prohibited under Islamic teachings. The incident occurred on Saturday after the school received a donation of pork intended for student meals.

“Although the school indicated that Muslim students and those from the Seventh-day Adventist faith were served separate meals, the fact that the same cooking utensils were used raises serious concerns about cross-contamination,” said Khalifa Salim Mohamed, a parent who spoke to Sahifa Media.

Adherents of the Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) church follow biblical dietary laws, which strictly prohibit pork as it is considered unclean.

Khalifa added that the decision had caused psychological distress among students, expressing concerns that the incident could mark the gradual introduction of pork into the school’s regular menu.

The Muslim Education Council (MEC) representative for Western Kenya, Fauzia Nakhulo Musa, confirmed receiving the complaint and said she was following up on the matter.

MEC Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Ibrahim condemned the incident, saying the headteacher’s actions contravened Ministry of Education policy guidelines that emphasize inclusivity and respect for religious diversity in schools.

“This is unacceptable. The school administration violated the Ministry of Education guidelines,” he said.

While acknowledging the matter, the school principal Dr. Aliva Elphas said the donation of pork to the school was made by a parent but pledged that it will not happened again. “Hakuna tena, we have stopped,” he told Sahifa media.

Kakamega High School has a Muslim student population of 142 learners out of a total enrollment of more than 3,000 students.