Garissa primary teacher brutally killed in suspected al-Shabaab attack

Al Shabaab/FILE

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has announced the death of a teacher who was killed in an attack in Garissa County, describing the incident as a serious blow to education and security.

The Commission said it received the news “with great sadness” following the killing of Stephen Vundi Musili, a teacher at Hulugho Primary School in Hulugho Sub-County.

According to the Commission, the teacher was “brutally attacked and killed on January 26, 2026, by suspected al-Shabaab militants.”

The incident happened in an area that has previously faced security challenges. The Commission noted that the teacher had been serving in a difficult environment and had shown strong dedication to his work.

TSC said the teacher was employed on January 2, 2025. It described him as “a dedicated teacher who had committed himself to the noble duty of educating learners in a challenging environment with exemplary commitment, courage and dedication.”

The Commission said his service reflected commitment to learners despite the risks involved.

The Government, working with security agencies, has flown the body to Nairobi. It is being preserved at Chiromo Funeral Home as arrangements continue.

TSC said it is “working closely with the family of the teacher to ensure they are accorded the necessary support to ensure a dignified sendoff.”

The Commission also announced an official visit to the area. It said it will travel with other relevant government agencies to Hulugho Sub-County on January 27, 2026.

The visit aims “to assess the situation obtaining on the ground and ascertain the safety of its employees in the area.”

In its statement, TSC strongly criticised the attack. It described the killing as a “heinous and cowardly act of terror.” The Commission said the incident “has not only robbed a young teacher of his life but also undermined the right to education, peace, and security for teachers and learners alike.”

TSC assured the public that it takes staff welfare seriously. It said the Commission “takes the safety and security of teachers seriously and will offer all the necessary support to improve the welfare of its employees.”

The Commission extended sympathy to those affected. It conveyed “deepest condolences to the family, relatives, colleagues, and learners during this moment of profound grief.”