Kenya School Hostel Fire Kills 16, Dozens Hospitalised

A tragic fire incident at a girls’ boarding school in Kenya has claimed the lives of at least 16 people, while several others sustained serious injuries. According to reports, the fire broke out late at night in the hostel building of Utumishi Girls Academy, a boarding school located in Nakuru County. Most of the victims are believed to be children. Authorities confirmed that 73 people were admitted to hospitals following the incident. The Kenyan Red Cross stated that the fire started around 1 a.m. at Utumishi Girls Academy Senior School situated in the Gilgil area. Rescue and emergency response teams rushed to the spot soon after the blaze was reported. Education Minister Julius Ongama said relief and rescue operations were immediately launched after the incident. Firefighters and emergency personnel worked to control the flames and assist those trapped inside the hostel building. Injured students were shifted to nearby hospitals, where treatment is currently underway. More than 800 girl students study at the school, leading to panic and chaos in the surrounding area after the incident. Families gathered outside the school and hospitals in search of information about their children, creating an atmosphere of grief and concern. Officials stated that the exact cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Investigators are examining whether the blaze was triggered by a short circuit or any other reason. The investigation into the incident is currently ongoing.