Fear Forces Teachers Out As Kabwazi Primary School Remains Closed For Three Weeks
Published on June 23, 2026 at 8:42 AM by Evance Kapito
Learning has come to a standstill at Kabwazi Primary School after a dispute between teachers and members of the surrounding community led to the suspension of classes for the past three weeks.
According to a report by Nation Online, efforts to resolve the standoff are ongoing, but most learners have yet to return to school while teachers continue to stay away from their duties over security concerns.
The situation reportedly escalated after unidentified individuals surrounded the house of teacher Jean Mmanga during the night, demanding more than K200,000 and allegedly threatening to kill him. The suspects also reportedly threatened to sexually assault him before carrying out the attack.
Mmanga, who lived alone in rented accommodation near the school, survived the ordeal after contacting police for help. Following the incident, he left the area and has since requested a transfer.
Headteacher Daniel Mlongoti said police and fellow teachers rushed to the scene after receiving the distress call but found that the suspects had already fled after damaging property at the house.
Teachers believe the threats are linked to an earlier conflict involving members of the community and the school.
Reports indicate that during a football tournament held in May, two young men from the area allegedly attempted to sexually assault a Standard 8 female learner who had gone to fetch water from a nearby borehole. The girl reportedly escaped and later reported the matter to school authorities, who referred the case to police.
The development allegedly angered some relatives of the suspects and other community members, leading to tensions and threats directed at teachers.
Nsiyaludzu Police Unit officer-in-charge Charles Solomon confirmed that police are investigating the matter and searching for the suspects, who are believed to have fled the area.
Meanwhile, the Balaka Education Division says it is working with police and local community security structures to restore peace, protect teachers and ensure learners return to class.
Kabwazi Primary School has more than 1,200 learners and 20 teachers. School authorities say the departure of Mmanga has further worsened an already critical teacher shortage.
District Education, Youth and Sports Manager Cathreen Gobola-Gunde said education officials are aware of the situation but will first visit the area before providing detailed comments on the matter.
The prolonged closure has raised concerns about the impact on learners, especially as schools prepare for end-of-term academic activities.
