Tragic Fire Claims Lives of 17 Students
At least 17 pupils have died following a devastating fire at Hillside Endarasha Primary School, Kenya on Thursday night, police have reported.
Authorities are concerned that the death toll may rise, as more than a dozen others have been hospitalized with severe burns.
The cause of the fire remains unknown, prompting President William Ruto to describe the incident as “horrific” and “devastating.”
He has ordered an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the blaze. “Those responsible will be held accountable,” Mr. Ruto stated on social media.
A team of investigators has been dispatched to the school to gather evidence and assess the situation.
Police spokesperson Resila Onyango informed AFP that some of the bodies recovered were “burnt beyond recognition.” She indicated that more bodies could be discovered as the scene is thoroughly processed.
In response to the tragedy, the Kenya Red Cross is providing psychosocial support services to students, teachers, and affected families. They have also set up a tracing desk at the school to assist those impacted.
Fires in Kenyan boarding schools are unfortunately not uncommon. In 2017, an arson attack at Moi Girls High School in Nairobi resulted in the deaths of 10 students.
Additionally, over two decades ago, a horrific arson incident in Machakos County claimed the lives of at least 67 students, marking it as one of the deadliest school fires in the country’s history.
The community is mourning the loss of young lives, and calls for enhanced safety measures in schools are expected to intensify following this tragedy.
