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Utumishi Girls fire tragedy: What various leaders have said so far
28th May, 2026 06:41 PM
Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, has been thrown into mourning following a devastating dormitory fire that broke out in the early hours of Thursday, May 28, 2026, leaving at least 16 students dead and several others injured.
The fire, which engulfed a dormitory housing senior school learners, reportedly spread rapidly while the girls were asleep.
Emergency responders, including police, fire teams and the Kenya Red Cross, rushed to the scene as frantic rescue operations unfolded.
Parents later gathered at the school compound in distress as authorities worked to account for the students and support the injured.
The tragedy has triggered nationwide grief, with leaders across government expressing sorrow and calling for urgent investigations into the cause of the fire.
Gachagua mourns Utumishi Girls fire victims
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua described the incident as painful and deeply unfortunate, saying the nation had lost young lives full of promise.
In his message, he extended condolences to bereaved families and wished the injured a quick recovery.
He also called for accountability and stronger preparedness in schools, noting that such tragedies should not occur in modern-day Kenya.
“This tragedy remains an unfortunate event that should never have occurred in our modern-day Kenya,” Gachagua said.
He further urged authorities to ensure that those responsible, whether through commission or omission, are held accountable.
Ruto expresses national grief
President William Ruto led the country in mourning, saying the government stands with families who lost their children in the fire.
He noted that no words could ease the pain of losing young lives full of hope and future potential, adding that the nation shares in the grief of parents, guardians and teachers.
Ruto confirmed that government attention had shifted to rescue operations, treatment of the injured and ongoing investigations.
He called for patience and unity as authorities work to establish the cause of the fire.
“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.
Kindiki speaks on the loss of 16 students
Deputy President Kithure Kindiki described the tragedy as heartbreaking, confirming that 16 girls had died while several others were injured.
He said the loss of young learners was a painful reminder of how fragile life is, especially when futures full of hope are cut short.
Kindiki assured families that the government stands with them and will support the school community through this difficult period. He also urged calm as investigations continue.
“To lose young girls, full of hope and dreams for the future, in such a cruel and painful way is a stark reminder of how fleeting life on earth is,” Kindiki said.
CS Ogamba confirms multi-agency response
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba confirmed the incident, describing it as a regrettable tragedy that claimed 16 learners while others sustained injuries.
He said the Ministry of Education, together with Interior, Gender and county officials, has formed a multi-agency response team to coordinate emergency support and assist affected families.
Ogamba added that investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire and that further updates will be communicated once available.
Murkomen on investigations and support
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the government is working closely with security agencies to determine the cause of the fire.
He assured the public that anyone found responsible will face the full force of the law.
Murkomen also visited injured students receiving treatment and pledged continued support, including counselling services to help them cope with trauma.
He urged calm as investigations continue and called for national solidarity during the mourning period.
Susan Kihika calls for accountability
Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika expressed sadness over the tragedy, saying the county government is working with national authorities to support emergency response efforts.
She extended condolences to affected families and urged thorough investigations to establish the cause of the fire and ensure accountability where necessary.
Kihika also emphasised the need to strengthen safety measures in schools to prevent similar tragedies in future, noting that the safety of learners must remain a priority.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire as families await answers and the nation mourns the loss of young lives.
