‘I have cried so hard’ – Vera Sidika mourns victims of Utumishi Girls fire
By William Muthama, May 28, 2026Socialite Vera Sidika has expressed deep sorrow following the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, which claimed the lives of 16 students and left several others injured.
Taking to Instagram on Thursday, May 28, 2026, Vera shared an emotional message reflecting the pain and shock of the incident, saying she had been deeply affected by the tragedy.
“I have cried so hard,” she wrote, adding, “Oh God have mercy on us waaaaaaaaah.”
She further expressed sympathy to the affected families and prayed for the souls of the students who lost their lives.
“May the innocent souls rest in peace,” she added in her post.
The socialite also described the incident as overwhelming and difficult to comprehend, noting the emotional toll such tragedies have on families, friends, and the wider public.
School closed
Utumishi Girls’ Academy has since been closed following the tragic dormitory fire, with students released to their parents and guardians as investigations into the cause of the incident continue.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba announced the closure on Thursday, saying all learners would be released after authorities completed the process of accounting for every student affected by the tragedy.
The incident has sparked nationwide mourning, with several celebrities and public figures taking to social media to express grief and send messages of condolence to affected families.
Comedian Njugush mourned the victims and wished a quick recovery to those injured, “Condolences to the family and friends for the lost lives of Utumishi Girls’ Academy students and quick recovery to those injured,” saying,
Musician Nameless and his wife Wahu described the incident as heartbreaking while sending prayers to affected families.
In a joint statement, they said, “Sincere condolences to the families and friends of the innocent girls who have lost their lives at Utumishi Girls. This is extremely heartbreaking. May our Heavenly Father be with them in this season.”
Actress Kate Actress also joined in mourning, expressing sympathy to bereaved families and praying for strength during the difficult moment.“My sincere condolences to the bereaved families of Utumishi Academy. Young lives were lost in today’s tragedy, and our hearts are truly broken,” She wrote.