President William Ruto has conveyed his condolences to the families of students who lost their lives in a dormitory fire at Utumishi Girls Academy in Gilgil, Nakuru County, on Thursday morning, a tragedy that has sent shockwaves across the country.

“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. As a nation, we mourn with the parents, guardians, teachers, and fellow students who are enduring this unimaginable tragedy,” President Ruto posted on X.

The Head of State said the government’s immediate focus is on rescuing those affected, ensuring the injured receive treatment, and supporting families as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.

“Our immediate attention is focused on the rescue of those affected, the treatment of the injured, and support for their families, while investigations continue into the cause of the fire,” he stated.

According to police reports, sixteen students have been confirmed dead and 74 others hospitalised following the blaze.

The fire was reported at approximately 4.30am by the school principal, Joycelene Muraguri, in an incident report filed at Gilgil Police Station.

The affected dormitory was housing 220 students drawn from Grade 10, Form 3, and Form 4.

A multi-agency response was mounted to contain the blaze, with fire brigades from Naivasha joining the operation alongside the Kenya Defence Forces, water bowsers from the Anti-Stock Theft Unit, the Kenya Forest Service, and the National Youth Service.

Leaders and Kenyans from across the country have continued to send messages of condolence to the affected families and the school community as grief over the loss of the young lives deepens.