President Ruto Mourns Utumishi Girls Academy Fire Victims as Death Toll Hits 16
The President said the government’s priority remains rescue efforts, treatment of the injured and support for affected families as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
President William Ruto. Photo/Courtesy
By Ruth Sang
President William Ruto has mourned the students who lost their lives following the tragic dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy, describing the incident as a devastating national tragedy.
In a condolence message shared on X, the President expressed sympathy to the affected families, teachers and students, saying the country was grieving the loss of young lives full of promise and ambition.
“Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost their beloved daughters in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil,” Ruto said.
“No words can truly ease the pain of losing young lives filled with promise, hope, and dreams for the future. As a nation, we mourn with the parents, guardians, teachers, and fellow students who are enduring this unimaginable tragedy,” he added.
The Head of State said the government’s immediate focus remains on rescue efforts, treatment of the injured students and support for affected families as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.
According to police, 16 students have so far been confirmed dead, while 74 others are receiving treatment in various hospitals after the fire broke out at around 4:30am on Thursday.
Police reports indicate the affected dormitory housed 220 students drawn from Grade 10, Form Three and Form Four classes.
Authorities said a multi-agency emergency response involving fire brigades from Naivasha, the Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Forest Service,
National Youth Service and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit was deployed to contain the blaze and assist in rescue operations.
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