By Njeri Irungu
The Government has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, in which several students are feared dead and others injured.
In a statement issued by Government Spokesperson Hon. Sen. Dr. Isaac Mwaura, the Government described the incident as devastating and conveyed condolences to the affected families, parents, guardians, teachers, and students.
“The Government has received with deep shock and profound sadness reports of a tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, in which several students are feared to have lost their lives while others sustained injuries,” the statement read.
According to the Government, emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the school following the incident. The teams include officers from the National Police Service, Kenya Defence Forces, County Disaster Units, medical personnel, and fire response units.
The injured students are currently receiving treatment at nearby health facilities as authorities continue efforts to account for all learners and ensure their safety.
The Government assured the public that all available resources have been mobilised to manage the situation and support affected families. Officials from various government agencies are already on the ground coordinating rescue operations and emergency response efforts.
Authorities have also urged Kenyans to remain calm and refrain from circulating unverified information or disturbing images on social media, warning that such content could worsen the trauma experienced by victims and their families.
The Government said investigations into the cause of the fire are underway, with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Interior and National Administration, and other relevant agencies working jointly to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“At this difficult hour, we stand united as a nation in solidarity with the students, teachers, and families affected by this tragedy,” Dr. Mwaura said.
The Government further noted that updates on the incident will continue to be communicated through official channels as more verified information becomes available.
