President William Ruto has mourned the students who lost their lives following a devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy, describing the tragedy as a painful moment for the nation.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the President said Kenya stood united in grief with the families, teachers, and students affected by the deadly dormitory fire that claimed the lives of 16 learners and left more than 74 others injured.
“Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost their beloved daughters in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil,” President Ruto said.
“No words can truly ease the pain of losing young lives filled with promise, hope, and dreams for the future,” he added.
The Head of State said the government’s immediate priority was to ensure rescue operations, treatment for the injured, and support for families affected by the incident.
“Our immediate attention is focused on the rescue of those affected, the treatment of the injured, and support for their families, while investigations continue into the cause of the fire,” he stated.
“As a nation, we mourn with the parents, guardians, teachers, and fellow students who are enduring this unimaginable tragedy.”
President Ruto also prayed for comfort and strength for the grieving families during the difficult period.
“May God grant comfort and strength to the grieving families during this painful time. Poleni sana,” he said.
The fire reportedly broke out at around 1am on Thursday morning at the school located in Gilgil, Nakuru County. According to the Kenya Red Cross, the incident was officially reported at approximately 3.30am, prompting emergency response teams to rush to the institution.
In a statement, the humanitarian agency confirmed that rescue and support operations were ongoing.
“Following a fire incident reported at around 3:30am at Utumishi Girls Academy in Nakuru County, Kenya Red Cross responded to support the ongoing emergency response,” the organisation said.
Authorities have not yet established the cause of the fire, with investigations continuing as families anxiously await answers.
The tragedy has left parents and guardians devastated, with many recounting horrifying scenes as students attempted to escape from the burning dormitory.
One guardian who spoke at the scene described how some learners jumped from the upper floors of the building in a desperate bid to save their lives.
“Those who were on the upper floor were jumping, and that is why most of them were hurt. We have heard that some of them were burnt and are in the hospital,” the guardian said.
“We have not been told how many students have passed on. I’m lucky to have found my aunt’s child. She has a broken leg, but she will be fine.”
The guardian also called on the government to conduct swift investigations into the cause of the fire.
“I condole with the parents who have lost their children. I ask the government to conduct a speedy investigation to find out what happened,” she added.
Emergency responders, health workers, and rescue teams remain at the scene as authorities continue assessments and support affected students and families.
