A devastating fire at the Hillside Endarasha Academy in Kieni, central Kenya, has resulted in the deaths of at least 17 students and injured 14 others, according to police spokesperson Resila Onyango. The incident occurred around midnight on September 5, with the dormitory engulfed in flames while children were sleeping.’The bodies found on the scene were burned beyond recognition,’ Onyango stated, adding that ‘other bodies may be found’ once the inspection of the fire scene is completed. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but an investigation has been launched.President William Ruto described the incident as ‘horrible’ and ‘devastating,’ ordering authorities to thoroughly investigate and hold those responsible accountable. The Kenya Red Cross is providing psychosocial support to affected pupils, teachers, and families.This tragedy is part of a troubling pattern of school fires in Kenya. In 2017, nine students died in a fire at a school in Nairobi, which was ruled as a deliberate act. In 2001, 58 students perished in a fire at the Kyanguli Secondary School, and in 2012, eight students were killed in a school fire in Homa Bay.School fires are relatively common in Kenyan boarding schools, where students often stay due to long commutes. Some fires have been attributed to student protests over workload or living conditions. As investigations continue, authorities fear the death toll may rise.
Key points
- At least 17 students died and 14 were injured in a fire at Hillside Endarasha Academy in central Kenya.
- President William Ruto has ordered a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire.
- This incident is part of a pattern of school fires in Kenya, with several similar tragedies in recent years.
- The Kenya Red Cross is providing psychosocial support to those affected by the tragedy.
Contradictions👾There are slight discrepancies in the reported number of injured students, with some sources citing 14 and others mentioning 13.
