Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has mourned the 16 students who died following the tragic dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, assuring affected families that the government will support them during the difficult period.
In a condolence message issued on Thursday, May 28, Kindiki described the incident as heartbreaking and painful for the country.
“I have learnt with deep shock and profound sorrow that we have lost 16 girls of Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil while several others were injured in a fire tragedy at the school,” Kindiki said.
Kindiki Describes Loss as Painful
The Deputy President said the deaths of the young learners, many of whom had hopes and dreams for the future, were a painful reminder of the fragility of life.
“To lose young girls full of hope and dreams for the future in such a tragic manner is a painful reminder of how fleeting life can be,” he added.
Kindiki further expressed sympathy to the families that lost their children and wished quick recovery to students receiving treatment following the overnight fire.
Government Assures Support
The DP assured families, injured students and the school community that the government would stand with them as investigations and recovery efforts continue.
“The government stands with all those affected and remains committed to supporting the school community as they come to terms with this tragedy,” he stated.
The deadly dormitory fire has sparked national mourning and renewed concerns over safety standards in boarding schools across the country.
Calls for Improved School Safety
The tragedy has also intensified calls for stricter enforcement of school safety regulations and emergency preparedness measures in learning institutions.
Government officials have already launched investigations into the cause of the fire, with authorities expected to review compliance with school safety guidelines as part of the ongoing probe.
The fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil left several students injured and destroyed part of the dormitory where the blaze broke out.
