Former Cabinet Minister Kipruto Arap Kirwa urges immediate psychological support for parents impacted by the tragic Utumishi Girls Academy dormitory fire in Gilgil, Nakuru County, which claimed 16 lives and injured many.
In a heartfelt interview on May 28, 2026, Kirwa extended his condolences and highlighted the emotional turmoil faced by families. “This tragedy is deeply traumatizing for parents. We hope they receive the necessary psychological therapy to help them heal,” he expressed.
Fire Incident and Emergency Response
The fire erupted around 1 a.m., triggering a swift emergency response from police, the Kenya Red Cross, fire brigades, and the Kenya Defence Forces. Authorities reported that 132 students were affected, with 74 hospitalized for varying injuries, while others have since been discharged. The school is closed indefinitely as investigations proceed.
Government pathologist Titus Ngulungu confirmed the recovery of 16 bodies, now at Naivasha Mortuary for postmortem examinations and DNA analysis.
Investigation and Government Response
Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja labeled the incident a national tragedy, assuring that investigations are underway. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Migos Ogamba visited the site, directing forensic teams to conduct thorough assessments.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura cautioned against sharing unverified information and graphic content online, stressing that it could further traumatize affected families.
Calls for School Safety and Preparedness
Kirwa emphasized the need for enhanced safety inspections in boarding schools, advocating for regular checks on fire safety systems and emergency exits. He noted that previous incidents revealed gaps in preparedness, calling for ongoing vigilance from education and disaster management agencies.
This tragedy has sparked a renewed national conversation on boarding school safety standards, with stakeholders advocating for improved emergency response systems and stricter enforcement of safety regulations in educational institutions.
