A fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, has left several students dead and others injured after a blaze tore through a dormitory in the early hours of Thursday, May 28, 2026.
Emergency teams, including the Kenya Red Cross, were dispatched to the school following reports of the fire. Rescue operations were ongoing as authorities worked to account for students and assist those affected. The cause of the fire has not yet been established.
The incident has sparked national concern, with leaders and institutions calling for calm and support for affected families as investigations continue.
DAP-K Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa has expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, sending condolences to the families of the victims and the wider school community.
“It is with profound sadness and deep sorrow that I have received the heartbreaking news of the tragic fire incident at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, which has led to the loss of innocent young lives and left several others injured,” Wamalwa said in his statement.
He extended sympathy to bereaved families, students, teachers, and staff, noting the emotional toll of the incident.
“On behalf of my family, the leadership, and the entire fraternity of the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K), I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the students, teachers, staff, and the entire school community during this painful and difficult moment,” he added.
Wamalwa said the loss of young lives had affected the country deeply, calling for prayers and support for those impacted.
“The loss of young and promising lives is a tragedy that has deeply touched the hearts of all Kenyans,” he said, adding that prayers were needed for the injured and for strength for grieving families.
He further urged unity among Kenyans during the mourning period, calling for compassion as families begin the painful process of identifying and burying their loved ones.
Authorities are expected to release more details as investigations into the cause of the fire continue, with questions emerging over safety standards in boarding schools.
The tragedy has once again placed school safety under scrutiny, with education stakeholders expected to push for stronger measures to prevent similar incidents in the future