A tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil has left several students dead and others injured, triggering widespread grief across the country as leaders call for urgent improvements in school safety and emergency preparedness. Investigations into the cause of the blaze are ongoing.
Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya said he was devastated by the tragedy, stating: “I was deeply saddened to receive the news of the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, that has led to the loss of innocent young lives.” He added: “Losing children in such a manner is heartbreaking.”
He extended condolences to affected families, saying: “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the school fraternity, and the people of Nakuru County during this painful moment.” Natembeya also prayed for recovery of the injured: “I also pray for the quick recovery of the students who were injured and thank the emergency responders…” and urged reforms: “This incident is a painful reminder of the need to strengthen safety measures in our schools.”
Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru also expressed sympathy, saying: “I join Kenyans in mourning the young lives lost…” and added: “My heart goes out to the families… We stand in solidarity… and pray for comfort for the bereaved families.”
Other leaders also joined in mourning the victims, with education and county officials calling for accountability and stronger enforcement of safety standards in boarding schools. Community members and stakeholders described the incident as deeply painful, saying the loss of young lives is a national tragedy that requires urgent preventive action.
As grief spreads across the country, leaders continue to send messages of condolence while emergency teams work with authorities to determine what led to the deadly blaze.
