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FLAMES OF SORROW: 16 GIRLS PERISH IN UTUMISHI DORMITORY FIRE

A devastating fire ripped through a dormitory at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, killing 16 students and injuring dozens more in the early hours of May 28, 2026. The tragic blaze has left families heartbroken and renewed urgent calls for improved safety in Kenyan boarding schools.

NYANCHIRI

May 28, 2026 - 13:27

May 28, 2026 - 13:32

FLAMES OF SORROW: 16 GIRLS PERISH IN UTUMISHI DORMITORY FIRE

Gilgil, Nakuru County – May 28, 2026

At least 16 students have died and dozens more were injured after a fire broke out in a dormitory at Utumishi Girls Academy, also known as Utumishi Girls Senior School, in Gilgil, Nakuru County, in the early hours of Thursday.

The fire erupted around 1:00 a.m. in the Meline Waithera Block dormitory, which housed approximately 220 students mainly from Grade 10, Form 3, and Form 4. It was reported to emergency services around 3:30 a.m. The blaze spread rapidly while the girls were asleep, causing chaos as students tried to escape.

As of the latest updates, 16 students have been confirmed dead. At least 79 students were injured and rushed to hospital. Of those injured, around 71 have been treated and discharged while seven or eight remain admitted for further observation. The injured suffered burns, smoke inhalation, and other trauma. They were taken to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Gilgil and other nearby medical facilities. The bodies of the deceased were moved to Gilgil Sub-County Hospital and other mortuaries for identification.

Distraught parents rushed to the school, gathering at the gates as authorities conducted roll calls and search operations. The school compound has been cordoned off.

Gilgil Sub-County Police Commander Winston Mwakio and senior Rift Valley Regional Police officials are at the scene. High-level government officials who visited the school include Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Education Principal Secretary Julius Bitok, DCI Boss Mohamed Amin, and DIG Eliud Lagat. Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba also confirmed the casualty figures and said the government is providing support for rescue efforts, treatment of the injured, and assistance to affected families.

President William Ruto expressed deep condolences, saying: “Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost their beloved daughters in the tragic fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil. No words can truly ease the pain of losing young lives filled with promise, hope, and dreams for the future.” The President directed that priority be given to ongoing rescue and medical care, family support, and a thorough investigation.

The exact cause of the fire is still unknown. Police and forensic teams have launched a full investigation. Authorities have urged the public to stop spreading unverified information that could cause more anxiety.

This is the latest in a series of tragic dormitory fires in Kenyan boarding schools, which have repeatedly raised concerns about fire safety standards, emergency preparedness, and infrastructure in boarding institutions. Leaders including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika, and Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka have sent condolences and called for accountability and urgent improvements in school safety.

This remains a developing story. The death toll and other details may change as identification processes and investigations continue. Our deepest condolences go to the families, the school community, and everyone affected by this heartbreaking tragedy.