A devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 16 lives, all of whom were students aged between 15 and 18. The blaze erupted shortly after midnight, sending shockwaves through the community and leaving parents anxiously awaiting news of their children. With 79 others injured, the incident has reignited concerns over safety standards in educational institutions across Kenya.
Details of the Incident
Local authorities reported that the fire broke out on the second floor of the dormitory, where approximately 220 students were sleeping at the time. Early reports suggest that locked doors on that floor hindered escape efforts, leading to some students jumping from windows in a desperate bid to flee the flames. Eyewitness accounts indicate that a student may have ignited a mattress, although the motivations behind this act remain unclear.
Education Minister Julius Migos Ogamba confirmed that 71 of the injured students have since been discharged from hospital. He stated that investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fire, which has yet to be established. The Kenyan Red Cross noted that the fire was first reported at around 3:30 AM, prompting a swift multi-agency response involving the county fire brigade and police.
Community’s Response
As news of the fire spread, parents gathered outside the school, frantic for information about their children’s safety. Some students were seen being assisted by police officers, while others limped away visibly injured. One parent, Wambui Nderitu, recounted how her niece survived but suffered a broken leg, emphasising the harrowing experience of students who had to jump from the upper floors.
The incident has