16 Students Killed in Kenya Boarding School Fire
Published on May 28, 2026 at 2:45 PM by Evance Kapito
At least 16 students have died following a devastating fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, about 120 kilometres northwest of Nairobi.
The fire broke out in the early hours of Thursday while students were asleep in a dormitory housing around 220 learners.
Julius Ogamba confirmed the deaths while visiting the scene, adding that dozens of other students were injured. Authorities say 71 students were treated and discharged, while seven remain admitted in hospital.
According to officials, the blaze started on the first floor of a two-storey dormitory building, which was completely destroyed before emergency teams managed to contain the fire around 03:00 local time.
Kenya Red Cross and emergency responders remain on the ground assisting affected families as police continue search-and-rescue operations and investigations into the cause of the fire.
Kipchumba Murkomen expressed condolences to the bereaved families and urged the public to avoid speculation as investigations continue.
Police commander Masoud Mwinyi said some students fled during the chaos and are still being traced.
The tragedy has once again raised concerns over fire safety in Kenyan boarding schools, where overcrowding, locked exits, and arson-related incidents have previously contributed to deadly fires.
Kenya has recorded several fatal school fires over the years, including a 2001 dormitory blaze in Machakos County that killed 67 students.
