Residents in Isiolo County have been left in shock after a device exploded on Monday evening at a Children’s home in Burat Ward, Isiolo.
One child died and eight others injured following the explosion at Victors Homestead Children’s Home.
The 12-year-old boy died on the spot following the explosion while the rest of the children who sustained serious injuries were rushed to the hospital.
It is believed that the children were playing with the explosive device before it exploded.
One of the children injured was a class eight candidate set to sit the Kenya Certificate of Primary Education (KCPE) which begin on Tuesday.
Isiolo County Commissioner John Ondego who confirmed the incident said the device might have been left there by clashing groups in the area.
The device exploded metres away from the boy’s dormitories shortly after a party with representatives from a mobile company who had visited the children’s home.
The county commissioner further said police officers discovered another explosive device when they arrived at the scene and they safely detonated it.
“This is not the first case, children unknowingly collect the devices and play with them unknowingly of the dangers it lurks. A KCPE candidate was injured and is currently receiving treatment. Candidates in the area sitting for their national exams should not worry. Exams will not be disrupted since the government has provided enough security,” said Mr Ondego.