In the dead of last night, a devastating fire gutted the main administration block of Tharaka University, destroying critical offices, equipment, and documents, while sparking urgent questions over safety, response readiness, and institutional continuity.
The blaze broke out just before midnight on September 24, swiftly engulfing the administration building. Flames reportedly consumed the Vice Chancellor’s office, the ICT/IT department, lecture halls, and adjoining media studio. Thick smoke and visible infernos drew students, staff and local residents to the scene, many attempting to salvage valuables even as the fire spread aggressively.
Initial reports suggest the fire may have been triggered by an electrical fault, though no official conclusion has yet been reached. The university and local authorities have launched investigations to determine the precise origin.
The scale of destruction is profound. Much of the administration block is reported to be a total loss. Irreplaceable documents—some charred beyond recognition—were recovered in bits and pieces. Computers, servers, office furniture and records housed in affected departments are presumed destroyed or heavily damaged.
Staff, students, and locals were among the first to respond, trying to slow the fire’s spread prior to the arrival of firefighting teams. Fire engines from Chuka and Kathwana were dispatched, but their arrival was delayed, and some reportedly ran out of water shortly after arriving. Despite challenges, responders managed to prevent the fire from spreading to adjacent facilities such as a conference hall.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported, as the building was vacant when the fire erupted. But the damage may disrupt upcoming examinations and administrative operations, potentially delaying university business and services. The loss of vital documents will complicate record-keeping, accreditation, and student services.
The university administration is expected to issue a formal statement once the damage assessment is complete. A full forensic investigation is underway to establish the cause and accountability. Local and national education authorities may be drawn into the process as stakeholders press for clarity, remediation, and preventive measures to avert future disasters.
