Post by : Rameen Ariff

In a heartbreaking incident, at least 15 students lost their lives when a fire erupted at a girls’ school dormitory in Kenya’s Rift Valley late last night, as confirmed by police.

The tragedy unfolded at Utumishi Girls' Academy Senior School, situated in Gilgil town, Nakuru County. Authorities reported that several students sustained injuries, though the total number of those affected has yet to be disclosed.

The cause of the fire remains unidentified, with investigations currently in progress.

Images from the site depicted shattered window panes, soot-covered walls, and significant damage within the dormitory once the flames were extinguished.

Police commander Masoud Mwinyi informed the press that approximately 50 officers have been deployed around the school to locate students who may have fled in fear during the chaos.

Many students reportedly evacuated the building in panic as the fire escalated.

This tragic occurrence adds to Kenya's history of school fires, with over 60 arson incidents reported in public secondary schools back in 2018. Many of these fires have been associated with student protests against stringent discipline and inadequate living conditions.

In a similar incident in 2024, a fire at a boarding primary school in Nyeri County resulted in the deaths of 21 students, with investigations regarding its cause still ongoing.

This recent disaster has ignited fresh concerns regarding safety measures and emergency protocols in Kenya's boarding schools.

#Global News #World News