Nairobi, Oct. 22 -- Schools in arid regions of central and northern Kenya are recording high numbers of absenteeism due to famine, with learners seeking transfer to institutions with feeding programmes.

Many schools in parts of Laikipia, Meru and Isiolo counties which have not received food have reported mass dropping out, with some suspending afternoon lessons altogether.

According to Mr Eric Bundi, an education officer in Isiolo, pupils are trekking for more than 20 kilometres to have a meal in schools that started receiving food two weeks ago.

The Sh10 million food provided by Lewa Conservancy was distributed to 23 schools. The aid targeted more than 8,000 pupils in Laikipia, Meru and Isiolo after half of their pupils dropped out. ...