Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has confirmed the deaths of three candidates undertaking the 2026 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examinations.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, November 4, Ogamba identified the deceased as Otieno Congestina Achieng’ of Alaru Central Mixed Secondary School in Rachuonyo West Sub-County, Homa Bay County; Cornelius Kiplagat Rotich of Katebee Secondary School in Turbo Sub-County, Uasin Gishu County; and Vivianne Adhiambo Owiti of Dhene Secondary School in Gem Wagai Sub-County, Siaya County.
“Regrettably, we have received the sad news of the passing of three KCSE candidates. They are Otieno Congestina Achieng’ of Alaru Central Mixed Secondary School in Rachuonyo West Sub-County, Homa Bay County, who fell ill during her examinations on Monday and later passed away in hospital,” read part of the statement.
CS Ogamba Reveals How Three KCSE 2026 Candidates Died During the Exams
According to the CS, Congestina fell ill while undertaking her examinations on Monday, November 2, and was taken to hospital, where she later died.
Rotich, on the other hand, passed away at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital on Tuesday, November 3, after sitting his Mathematics paper in the morning.
The third candidate, Vivianne, was reportedly murdered at her family home on Friday, October 30. The CS stated that a suspect linked to her killing was in police custody as investigations continued.
“Vivianne Adhiambo Owiti of Dhene Secondary School in Gem Wagai Sub-County, Siaya County, who was reportedly murdered at her family home on Friday, 30th October 2026. A suspect in connection with her death is currently in police custody as investigations continue,” read part of the statement.
The three deaths were reported as the national examinations entered their third day, having commenced on Monday, November 2.
Ogamba conveyed the Ministry of Education’s condolences to the families, friends and school communities of the deceased candidates.
Education Ministry Sends Message to Candidates Who Are Receiving Medication
He also wished candidates receiving medical attention in various health facilities across the country a speedy recovery.
The CS acknowledged education and health officials for making arrangements to allow candidates receiving treatment to continue sitting their examinations.
He said such interventions were necessary to ensure that learners facing illness or other unforeseen difficulties were not disadvantaged or prevented from completing the national examinations.
Meanwhile, the Ministry also reported isolated security challenges in Moyale Sub-County, Marsabit County, following clashes along the Kenya-Ethiopia border.
The security situation prompted the relocation of candidates from two examination centres to safer locations, allowing them to continue sitting their papers.
Ogamba commended government agencies for coordinating the relocation and ensuring the affected candidates continued with their examinations.
The CS said the government, working with the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) and other agencies, was monitoring the exercise to ensure the remaining papers were administered fairly and without unnecessary disruptions.
He also warned candidates, parents and members of the public against individuals and online groups claiming to possess examination materials.
Ogamba urged anyone with credible information about suspected examination malpractice or irregularities to report directly to KNEC through its toll-free numbers 0800 721 410 and 0800 724 900.
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