Survivors of a tragic fire at Utumishi Girls’ Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, Kenya, reported that dormitory doors were locked from the inside during the incident, which claimed the lives of at least 16 students. The fire erupted shortly after midnight and continued for over two hours, resulting in 79 other students injured, with most discharged from the hospital by Thursday. Witnesses indicated that keys to the dormitory were initially missing, hampering rescue efforts as smoke and flames engulfed the building. Some students attempted to escape through windows, with injuries occurring as they jumped from the upper floors. Allegations of arson have surfaced, with claims that a group of students set a mattress ablaze, although investigations are ongoing, and authorities have urged caution regarding speculation.
Why It Matters
This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding fire safety in Kenyan boarding schools, where reports of fires are frequent, often linked to student unrest due to harsh conditions. In 2024 alone, over 100 school fires were recorded, with a previous incident in Nyeri County resulting in 21 student fatalities. The 2001 Kyanguli Secondary School fire, which killed 67 boys, remains one of the deadliest school fires in Kenya’s history and was attributed to arson. These tragedies underscore the pressing need for improved safety measures and oversight in educational institutions across the country.
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