Rachel Gikonyo, a survivor of the tragic Garissa University attack that occurred on April 2, 2015, recently spoke out after receiving a significant compensation award. The attack, which claimed the lives of 147 students, left many others severely injured, including Gikonyo.
On July 31, 2024, the High Court ruled that the government should pay Ksh.441 million to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack. Additionally, Ksh.56.9 million was to be distributed among the survivors.
According to the court's ruling, each family of the deceased victims will receive Ksh.3 million. The survivors, including Rachel Gikonyo, were awarded varying amounts based on their individual situations. Gikonyo, who received Ksh.10 million, shared her story with the press following the announcement of the ruling.
Gikonyo's life changed dramatically after the attack. She suffered severe injuries that have left her dependent on a wheelchair. Despite the challenges, Gikonyo expressed relief and gratitude towards the legal system for providing her with some measure of justice. She noted how difficult the journey has been but remained hopeful throughout the process.
In her statement, Gikonyo reflected on the impact of the attack on her life.
"I'm one of the victims of the Garissa University attack. The judgment has been favorable to us. They have promised to award us the damages for the injuries. We are so grateful to our lawyers who have done their best to make the case successful for us," she said.
Gikonyo also mentioned her struggle to complete her education after the attack. Despite the physical and emotional scars, she managed to finish her studies at Kenyatta University. However, finding employment has been a persistent challenge for her.
Rachel Gikonyo's mother also spoke to the media, voicing her concerns and hopes for future improvements in the nation's security. She urged the government to enhance protective measures to prevent such incidents from occurring again.
"We pray that when such things arise, the government should take action instead of things going to court. We shall continue praying for the government so that such incidents should not happen again in Kenya. It's very devastating," she said.
Another parent, who had a child survive the attack, shared her harrowing experience. She described the profound impact the attack had on her life, including financial and emotional struggles.
She had to sell her possessions to make ends meet and faced the immense challenge of coping with the loss of her other children and husband.
The parent explained, "The first born died in hospital in Mumias. My second born died when she was still young, and my third born survived the incident. My husband died shortly after learning about the Garissa attack incident that year. The church would counsel me and through the church found a way to relieve my stress."
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