A wave of grief has swept across the country after a deadly fire broke out at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, leaving at least 15 students feared dead. The overnight tragedy unfolded while learners were asleep, triggering panic, confusion, and desperate rescue efforts as emergency teams rushed to the scene.
Highlights
- Fire reportedly started at around 1 a.m. inside a school dormitory.
- At least 15 students are feared dead.
- Several injured learners were taken to hospitals in Gilgil.
- Kenya Red Cross deployed emergency and counselling teams.
- Authorities have launched investigations into the cause of the fire.
Main Story
Kenya is once again mourning the loss of young lives following a tragic dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil.
According to police reports and emergency responders, the blaze erupted in the early hours of Thursday morning while students were asleep inside one of the school dormitories. Rescue teams moved quickly to evacuate learners, but the fire is believed to have spread rapidly through the building.
Several students sustained injuries during the incident and were rushed to nearby medical facilities, including St. Joseph’s Hospital in Gilgil, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Rescue Teams Respond
The Kenya Red Cross confirmed that its teams were immediately dispatched to the school to assist with rescue operations and provide support to affected families and students.
Emergency responders also set up psychosocial support services as distraught parents gathered outside the institution seeking information about their children.
Rift Valley Regional Police Commander Samuel Ndanyi stated that authorities were still verifying the number of students affected as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
Painful Memories Resurface
The Gilgil tragedy has reopened painful memories of past school fire disasters in Kenya that claimed dozens of young lives.
Among the most remembered incidents is the Kyanguli Secondary School fire tragedy in Machakos County, where 67 students lost their lives. Kenyans also recalled the Nyeri school fire that killed 21 students in 2024.
As investigations continue, many Kenyans online are once again calling for stricter safety measures in boarding schools to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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