The Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Assembly has launched investigations into the invasion of the Kpone Community Preparatory School by stray cattle after a viral video sparked public outrage over the safety of pupils and staff.
The footage, which circulated widely on social media, showed dozens of cattle roaming and resting within the school compound during school hours while pupils watched from classroom corridors and verandas. The incident raised concerns about the security and sanitation conditions at the school.
Responding to the development, the Kpone-Katamanso Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Samuel Tetteh Kwashie Morton, described the incident as unacceptable and assured residents that steps were being taken to prevent a recurrence.
“The invasion of a school by cattle is highly regrettable and unacceptable. Educational facilities are security zones where children must feel safe to learn and develop. We cannot allow such incidents to continue,” he stated in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA).
Mr Morton stressed that livestock owners must adhere to regulations governing the movement and rearing of animals within the municipality. He also appealed to traditional leaders, corporate institutions, residents, and development partners to support efforts to fence the school and improve its security.
According to him, the Municipal Assembly remains committed to protecting educational facilities and is ready to collaborate with stakeholders willing to contribute to the school’s development.
Meanwhile, the Municipal Environmental Health Officer, George Freeman, disclosed that environmental health personnel had been deployed to the school to assess potential health risks arising from the cattle’s presence.
He explained that inspections and sanitation exercises were underway to ensure that pupils and teachers were not exposed to harmful waste or contaminants left behind by the animals.
Mr Freeman further revealed that investigations had commenced to identify the owners of the cattle and determine how the animals gained access to the school premises.
He warned that anyone found responsible would face sanctions under the Assembly’s by-laws and relevant regulations.
“The Assembly takes this matter seriously. Investigations are ongoing and those found responsible will face the necessary sanctions to serve as a deterrent to others,” he said.
Residents who reacted to the incident welcomed the Assembly’s swift response and called for stricter enforcement of livestock control regulations to safeguard schools and other public institutions across the municipality.
Many expressed hope that the planned interventions, including fencing the school, would help create a safer and more conducive learning environment for pupils.
