The government confirmed on Saturday that the death toll from the devastating fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in Nyeri County had tragically risen to 21.
The fire erupted in the dormitory of the school around midnight on Thursday, catching over 150 young boys, aged nine to 13, while they slept.
Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura said the fire claimed 19 lives at the scene, with two more succumbing to injuries in the hospital.
Of the 156 boys who were in the dormitory at the time, 135 have been located, either recovering at home or receiving medical attention.
Mwaura described the incident as “a catastrophe beyond our imagination” during a press briefing at the devastated site. “It is truly devastating for the nation to lose such a number of young and promising Kenyans. Our hearts are heavy.”
Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire. The scene has been cordoned off to media, while homicide detectives and forensic teams work to uncover the truth.
The dormitory has been reduced to a charred shell, with its roof collapsed and the bodies of the victims reported to be burnt beyond recognition.
- Death of students in school fire must trouble our conscience
- 17 pupils die in tragic fire at Hillside Academy in Nyeri
Chief Government Pathologist Johansen Oduor announced that postmortem examinations are set to commence on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga has instructed a comprehensive investigation into the fire’s origins.
“We will assess whether negligence or recklessness played a role in this tragedy,” said Ingonga’s office. “Those found responsible will face the full force of the law.”
The incident has brought renewed focus on school safety in Kenya, particularly given the history of similar disasters. Initial findings by the National Gender and Equality Commission suggest that the dormitory was “overcrowded, in violation of safety standards.”
In the wake of the tragedy, President William Ruto has announced three days of national mourning starting Monday, calling it an “unfathomable tragedy.”
Pope Francis has also extended his condolences, expressing profound sadness and spiritual support for the victims and their families.
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